Pilot Debrief

FLY HARD TRIKE INC SKYCYCLE STING RAY near Gulfport, MS — 2012-09-21

Final reportERA12CA570
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Date
2012-09-21
Location
Gulfport, MS, USA
Airport
GPT
Aircraft
FLY HARD TRIKE INC SKYCYCLE STING RAY
Registration
N86862
Category
Trike
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control after an unexpected wind gust/turbulence encounter during landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the experimental weight-shift control aircraft stated that he was returning to the departure airport after an uneventful 90-minute test flight. During the landing approach, the aircraft encountered a gust of wind, then "violently" pitched up, rolled to the right, nosed over, and impacted the ground. Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the wings and nose. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal aircraft operation. The pilot stated that he believed that this was a “freak” accident caused by unanticipated turbulence over the runway at the time of touchdown.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 8 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents8

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