Amateur-built BATHTUB N538 accident near Broadhead, Wisconsin

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during approach, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.

NTSB analysis

The airplane was destroyed when it impacted terrain following a loss of control on final approach to land. The flight was the pilot's first flight in the airplane. A witness reported seeing the airplane as it turned from a left base leg of the airport traffic pattern to final approach. The witness reported that the airplane's bank angle increased during the turn to correct for wind drift. It then stalled and entered a spin. Another witness also reported that he believed the accident was the result of a stall/spin. Neither witness reported hearing any engine malfunctions. No preimpact mechanical deficiencies were found with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CHI08LA123 for the full record.