Evektor Aerotechnik Sportstar Plus N121EV accident near Richmond, Texas

Probable cause

The opening of the cockpit canopy in-flight due to improper latching, which resulted in a loss of control and impact with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The airplane was on final approach when it suddenly nosed down and impacted terrain about 400 feet short of the approach end of the runway. The airplane came to rest upright. The forward hinged cockpit canopy separated from the airplane during the impact and came to rest about 20 feet from the main wreckage. The pilot (who later died from his injuries) told several witnesses and first responders that the cockpit canopy came open in flight and he subsequently lost control of the airplane. A postaccident examination of the airplane and the cockpit canopy latch mechanism revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operations. The canopy latch was likely not secured properly before takeoff because there were no witness marks on the latch mechanism.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10FA278 for the full record.