Pitts S-2 All Series
Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Commercial; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 15; Flight Crew Total 3300; Flight Crew Type 350
Other / Unknown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Ground Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
Flight Crew Rejected Takeoff
Aircraft
The 2 place canopy left the aircraft approximately 2-3 seconds into the takeoff roll. Given the OAT; the aircraft would have become airborne in 5-6 seconds (OAT was 35 degrees Fahrenheit). The canopy 'lock/unlock' lever was found to be in the 'lock' position. We have been unable to determine why the canopy departed. What was done right: 1) the engine control was pulled to idle immediately. The takeoff was done from the 3 point position and it was within a couple of seconds of being airborne with an enormous amount of noise and wind. 2) Pulling the power on a Pitts when it's about to take off; places it in a position where lateral control is difficult. I estimate that the aircraft remained with a foot of the centerline. What I would change: I always fly with sunglasses. With a high overcast I didn't need them. Having them on would have diminished the effect of the wind and protected my eyes from any foreign material. From now on; when flying any airplane with a bubble canopy; I will always wear sunglasses or clear glasses.
Pitts S2 pilot describes the departure of his bubble canopy during the takeoff roll and the rejected takeoff that follows.