1996-05-20:
N303NL crashed moments after departing from runway 25 at Kenora. The aircraft which was part of the Northern Lights Aerobatics Team was third in a four aircraft configuration. Two of the aircraft had taken off in front of 303 and one remained on the runway while 303 departed. The aircraft suffered substantial damage, the aircraft is approximately 250 feet south of runway 25. The pilot was uninjured. Gusty northwest winds and embedded TCU had been reported prior to the departure. TSB are on the scene. Updates to follow. UPDATE: Examination revealed that the canopy latches were extended but not engaged in the retaining frame before takeoff, and opened shortly after the aircraft became airborne. The canopy's aft restraining strap broke and the canopy folded onto the right wing. The canopy plexiglass shattered and the broken canopy interfered with the operation of the right aileron and induced an uncontrollable left roll. The operator is considering the installation of a canopy microswitch, with an aural warning system to alert the pilot of an unsecured canopy.
