N12369

Substantial
None

MOORE THOMAS O ZENITH STOL CH701S/N: 7-5893

Accident Details

Date
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
NTSB Number
ERA14CA189
Location
Frostproof, FL
Event ID
20140409X53710
Coordinates
27.657499, -81.462501
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a precautionary landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's delayed decision to divert due to deteriorating weather.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
MOORE THOMAS O
Serial Number
7-5893
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2010
Model / ICAO
ZENITH STOL CH701
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
ZENITH STOL CH701

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
HOPE MISSIONS
Address
160 RAVINE DR NW
City
KALKASKA
State / Zip Code
MI 49646-8047
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that he obtained weather information via the Internet prior to departing on a cross-country flight. Additionally, during the flight, he monitored automated weather reports via radio. About 2 hours into the flight, when the airplane was 17 miles from the destination airport, the wind increased to 25 knots and rain began. The pilot performed a 180-degree turn; however, the rain and turbulence increased, along with a decrease in visibility and ceiling height. The pilot then performed a precautionary landing on a road. About 200 feet into the landing roll, the airplane veered left off the road and struck an orange tree, which separated the right wing. The pilot added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane and that he should have reversed course 20 minutes sooner.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA14CA189