Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft pitch control resulting in the airplane impacting the terrain. Contributing to the accident were the pilot's failure to ensure the canopy was fully locked prior to takeoff and the canopy oscillations in flight.
NTSB analysis
The pilot took off with the canopy not fully locked. During the takeoff, the canopy opened. Not certain that he could stop on the remaining runway, the pilot continued the takeoff and climbed to a safe altitude. While attempting to return to the airport and simultaneously fighting the canopy oscillation, the pilot lost control of the airplane on approach and impacted the terrain. The kit manufacturer stated that the airplane is flyable with the canopy open.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA207 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 31, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Longmont, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Vance Brand Airport (KLMO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Amateur-built LANCAIR LE
- N-number
- N939CB
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.