N134CEBerard James H RV-6A · 2011

On August 11, 2012, about 1330 eastern daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Berard RV-6A, N134CE, impacted terrain after takeoff from Westfield Airport (I72), Westfield, Indiana. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and vertical stabilizer. The aircraft was registered to and operated by the owner/builder under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, which was not operated on a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot reported that after takeoff, the wind caused the airplane to drift toward one side of the runway. He started to correct, but then noticed that the right wing was getting close to the ground. He did not recall any subsequent events. The pilot reported that there were no problems with the airplane prior to that point in time. In his report, the pilot noted that he believes he inadvertently stalled the airplane.

A postaccident examination conducted by Federal Aviation Administration inspectors revealed left wingtip damage was consistent with initial ground contact by the left wing. A ground impact mark about 45 feet long was observed leading to the accident site. The airplane came to rest inverted about 1,000 feet from the departure end of runway 36. Flight and engine control continuity were confirmed. No anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction were observed.

Between 1235 and 1335, the recorded wind condition at the Indianapolis Executive Airport (TYQ), located about 4 miles west of the accident site, varied from 260 degrees to 300 degrees at 5 to 8 knots.

The pilot held a sport pilot certificate with a single-engine land airplane endorsement. Individuals holding sport pilot certificates may operate light sport aircraft within the limitations of the regulations. The accident airplane was being operated on an experimental category, special airworthiness certificate, and not a light sport airplane airworthiness certificate. The accident airplane did not meet FAA requirements to be operated as a light sport airplane because the gross weight exceeded 1,320 pounds. The pilot reported a maximum gross weight of 1,600 pounds. The pilot reportedly acknowledged to FAA inspectors that he was aware that the accident airplane did not qualify as a light sport airplane.