Pilot Debrief

BRUNNER DONALD G KITFOX near Rock Crossing, AZ — 2026-03-10

Final reportWPR26LA123
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Date
2026-03-10
Location
Rock Crossing, AZ, USA
Aircraft
BRUNNER DONALD G KITFOX
Registration
N104DG
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

An encounter with a downdraft while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in an impact with terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was maneuvering at a low altitude, searching for a suitable off-airport landing area. While in a left turn, the airplane encountered a downdraft that felt like “downward pressure” and was perceived as a loss of control. The pilot leveled the wings and applied full engine power; however, the airplane continued to descend, and impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies prior to the accident that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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