NTSB Factual Report

On April 4, 2009, about 1440 central daylight time, a single-engine Argence RV-8 airplane, N89EA, was destroyed during impact with trees following a roll during initial climb-out from the Flyin' Tiger Field (81D), Angleton, Texas. The airline transport pilot, sole occupant, sustained serious injuries. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to several eyewitnesses, the accident airplane departed third in a flight of four airplanes. The pilot of the first airplane was observed doing a roll during climb-out. The second airplane climbed-out normally. As the third and accident airplane was on climb-out the airplane was observed to do a roll. Witnesses reported that as the airplane's wings rolled back to a level attitude, the airplane impacted into trees and subsequently the ground. The pilot exited the airplane unassisted, but was later airlifted to a hospital.

An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) responded to the accident site and reported that the airplane was nearly consumed in the post crash fire. In addition, the inspector reported that continuity was established to all of the airplane's flight controls.

Due to the pilot's injuries, he could not be interviewed by investigators. The pilot was also unable to submit a NTSB 6120.1 accident form.

At 1453, the weather observation facility at the Brazoria County Airport (LBX), Angleton, Texas, located 9 nautical miles southwest from the site of the accident, was reporting the wind from 150 degrees at 12 knots, visibility 10 miles, scattered clouds at 2,600 feet and 4,100 feet, broken ceiling at 6,000 feet, temperature 79 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point 64 degrees Fahrenheit, and a barometric pressure setting of 29.77 inches of Mercury.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during initial climbout.