NTSB Factual Report

The pilot stated that he taxied to the runway to do a high speed taxi run. He performed an engine run up, and while doing a magneto test he noticed the engine was running rich and leaned the mixture and retested the magnetos. All was okay, so he continued with the check list. At this point he latched the two canopy latches on the right side and scanned the instrument panel and noticed that the head temperature and oil temperature rising. He stated that his attention was diverted in concern of the rising head temperature and did not recall if he latched the two latches on the left side of the canopy. He started the takeoff roll and after becoming airborne and climbing, he noticed the canopy coming up on the left side. The pilot attempted to latch the canopy, but realized it would take both hands, and continued to climb to pattern altitude while trimming the aircraft for better airspeed control. He then pulled the throttle back to slow down and to try to shut the canopy. The canopy started flapping up and down, and the pilot tried to hang on to the canopy, but that was causing him to not be able to control the airplane. He stated that debris was flying everywhere and the wind blew off his headset. When he realized that he was getting low he added full power and looked for a clear area. The next thing he knew was that the airplane hit the ground.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to properly latch the cockpit canopy prior to takeoff, resulting in his diverted attention and failure to maintain aircraft control.