Probable cause
The pilot's attempt to secure an open canopy during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent hard landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot initiated a takeoff and, as the airplane became airborne, the canopy opened. The pilot attempted to close the canopy and lost control of the airplane. The airplane landed hard on the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot stated that he failed to secure the canopy before takeoff and there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operations.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA443 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 2, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania
- Nearest airport
- Lancaster Airport (LNS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Evektor-Aerotechnik As SPORTSTAR PLUS
- N-number
- N182EV
- 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.