Pilot Debrief

Trick Trikes Eagle near Eustis, FL — 2013-03-17

Final reportERA13CA177
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Date
2013-03-17
Location
Eustis, FL, USA
Airport
X55
Aircraft
Trick Trikes Eagle
Registration
N44565
Category
Trike
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the weight-shift aircraft during the final approach to land.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot of the weight-shift aircraft, he noticed that the wind speed was increasing, and he decided to return to the airport. While on final approach to runway 18, about 30 feet above ground level, the aircraft encountered “turbulence.” It veered to the left, and the pilot unsuccessfully attempted to gain altitude in order to avoid colliding with trees. The aircraft settled into the trees, which resulted in substantial damage to the keel and spar of the aircraft. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation. The wind recorded at an airport about 10 miles west of the accident location about the time of the accident was from 150 degrees at 7 knots.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents8

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