Summary
On March 17, 2013, a Trick Trikes Eagle (N44565) was involved in an accident near Eustis, FL. The accident resulted in 1 minor injury. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the weight-shift aircraft during the final approach to land.
According to the pilot of the weight shift aircraft, he noticed the wind speed increasing and decided to return to the airport. While on final approach to runway 18, approximately 30 feet above ground level, the aircraft incurred “turbulence,” it veered to the left, and the pilot unsuccessfully attempted to gain altitude in order to avoid colliding with trees. The aircraft settled into the trees, which resulted in substantial damage to the keel and spar of the aircraft. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation. Winds, recorded at an airport 10 miles to the west of the accident location, about the time of the accident, were from 150 degrees at 7 knots.
This accident is documented in NTSB report ERA13CA177. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N44565.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the weight-shift aircraft during the final approach to land.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
According to the pilot of the weight shift aircraft, he noticed the wind speed increasing and decided to return to the airport. While on final approach to runway 18, approximately 30 feet above ground level, the aircraft incurred “turbulence,” it veered to the left, and the pilot unsuccessfully attempted to gain altitude in order to avoid colliding with trees. The aircraft settled into the trees, which resulted in substantial damage to the keel and spar of the aircraft. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation. Winds, recorded at an airport 10 miles to the west of the accident location, about the time of the accident, were from 150 degrees at 7 knots.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA13CA177