Pilot Debrief

PIPISTREL ALPHA TRAINER near Colorado City, AZ — 2025-07-11

Final reportWPR25LA209
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Date
2025-07-11
Location
Colorado City, AZ, USA
Aircraft
PIPISTREL ALPHA TRAINER
Registration
N209ZM
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s exceedance of the airplane’s never-exceed speed (VNE) during maneuvering, which resulted in the in-flight separation of the left flaperon.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during a steep turn maneuver, the airplane pitched down and accelerated rapidly. The pilot stated that the airplane exceeded the never-exceed speed (VNE) and encountered aerodynamic buffeting, which resulted in the in-flight separation of the outboard portion of the left flaperon and substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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