Probable cause
The pilot's incorrect flight control input during the landing flare, which resulted in an impact with the ground.
NTSB analysis
The experienced fixed-wing pilot, who had 16 flight hours in weight-shift-control aircraft, stated he was conducting touch-and-go landings during his first solo flight in the weight-shift aircraft when a sink rate developed in the landing flare. He said negative inference occurred from his fixed wing experience and he pulled back on the control tube instead of pushing forward. The aircraft nosed into the runway, substantially damaging both wing spars. The pilot stated there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA217 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 7, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bristol, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Winfield (WI58)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Airborne XT912
- N-number
- N88ZT
- Category
- Weight-shift
- Year built
- 2003
- 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.