Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a return to the airport, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and spin.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that the preflight inspection, engine start, taxi, run up, lift off and initial climb were normal. He further stated that after the initial climb, he has no memory of the circumstances surrounding the crash. Witnesses reported that shortly after takeoff there was a “loud bang or pop” from the airplane. The pilot attempted to return to the airport; however, the airplane started to spin and collided with the ground in a nose-down attitude and slid about 70 feet before coming to rest. Examination of the wreckage found no preexisting mechanical problems with the airframe or engine.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10LA025 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 21, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Hernando, Mississippi
- Nearest airport
- Hernando Village Arpt, Inc (H75)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built Christen Eagle
- N-number
- N24EA
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.