Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control during an aborted landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane "bounced twice" as he was attempting to land on the asphalt runway. He decided to execute a go-around and applied full engine power. However, the airplane "did not lift out of ground effect" and a wheel "caught the grass" causing a ground loop. The pilot noted that the accident might have been prevented by leveling off to allow the airspeed to increase before attempting to climb. He reported a variable wind at 10 knots with gusts to 15 knots. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA191 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 23, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Midland, Michigan
- Nearest airport
- Jack Barstow (IKW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built AIRCAMPER
- N-number
- N9863Z
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2016
- 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.