Hughes Aero Corp PREDATOR N912AM accident near Branson, Missouri

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control when executing a landing with a tailwind, resulting in impact with a retaining wall.

NTSB analysis

According to the sport pilot, following an hour long personal flight in the experimental light sport powered parachute, he made an off airfield approach to an open field next to his home. He reported that he established a normal approach to the field and lost control of the powered parachute during the landing. He reported that the powered parachute impacted a retaining wall that stood between the field and his home. The powered parachute sustained substantial damage to the airframe.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or anomalies with the powered parachute prior to or during the flight that would have prevented normal flight operation.

The FAA aviation safety inspector assigned to the accident reported that the pilot had a habit of landing in the open field next to his home. During the accident approach, the pilot made the approach with a tail wind and then attempted to abort the landing. However, the pilot was unable to establish a climb and the powered parachute impacted a retaining wall that separated the open field and the pilot's home.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15CA065 for the full record.