CUB CRAFTERS CCX-2000 near Laotto, IN — 2024-02-19

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper decision to continue an approach with his vision obscured by sun glare, which resulted in a collision with a tree.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was on final approach to a private grass airstrip. He stated that his vision was obscured due to the sun glaring off a nearby pond. The airplane drifted left of the intended touchdown point and struck a small tree. The pilot was unable to see the tree in time to avoid the collision. The fuselage and both wings sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that he should have not continued the approach with obscured vision.

NTSB coding

• Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) · Approach-VFR pattern final
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• Photos
• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• NTSB FORM 6120 PILOT OPERATOR REPORT CEN24LA116form
• INVESTIGATION PHOTOGRAPHS CEN24LA116photos

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