NTSB Factual Report

On October 13, 2004, about 1450 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N6410W, sustained substantial damage subsequent to an in-flight collision with terrain shortly after takeoff from the Wes Lupien Airport, Oak Harbor, Washington. The airplane is owned by the pilot and was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) personal flight under the provisions of Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The certificated private pilot, the sole occupant of the airplane, sustained serious injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the local flight.

In a written statement, and subsequent interview with a representative from the NTSB, the pilot reported that this was the airplane's first flight following a complete restoration and that he intended to fly in the local area to evaluate the airplane's systems. He further stated that he was unable to recall any of the detailed events associated with the flight operation.

The airplane wreckage was located on the airfield approximately 700 feet west and 200 feet north of the threshold of runway 25. The airplane impacted terrain in a nose low attitude and came to rest in the inverted position.

On October 26, representatives from the National Transportation Safety Board, Federal Aviation Administration, Lycoming and The New Piper Aircraft, Inc, examined the wreckage at a hangar facility in Oak Harbor. The examination revealed no evidence of a pre-impact mechanical failure or malfunction.

Witnesses observed the airplane taxi from the hangar area to the runway. The witnesses stated that they observed the pilot performing a run-up, however they did not witness the takeoff or crash.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during takeoff, which resulted in a collision with terrain.