Pilot Debrief

Czech Sport Aircraft a.s. Sport Cruiser near Sacramento, CA — 2017-12-09

Final reportGAA18CA077
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Date
2017-12-09
Location
Sacramento, CA, USA
Airport
SAC
Aircraft
Czech Sport Aircraft a.s. Sport Cruiser
Registration
N227US
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to securely lock the canopy before takeoff.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, during the initial climb, he realized that the canopy was not latched properly and had opened. The pilot attempted to secure the canopy, but he was unsuccessful. He decided to terminate the flight and land; however, his airspeed was too fast during the touchdown and the airplane landed hard. The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane slid across the runway. The pilot reported that when the airplane came to rest, he saw that a fuel line had ruptured, and he immediately exited the airplane. The airplane caught fire and was extinguished by first responders. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that this accident could have been prevented if he had checked the canopy after he latched it and noticed the latch didn't catch.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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