Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, he was performing the sixth or seventh touch-and-go landing of the day. The windsock indicated a slight crosswind from the left just before touchdown, but, upon landing, a "very strong gust from the right" lifted the wing and pushed the airplane to the left. The pilot responded with adjustments in engine power, rudder, and aileron, but he was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane dragged a wing, ground looped, and the landing gear collapsed, which resulted in substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. After the accident, the pilot reported that there were no deficiencies in the performance and handling of his airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA370 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 25, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Titusville, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Arthur Dunn Air Park (X21)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built STORCH
- N-number
- N126SR
- 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.