Probable cause
The pilot's failure to attain the proper landing approach speed and touchdown point, which resulted in a runway excursion after touchdown and collision with a ditch.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he flew a faster-than-normal approach due to his concerns about a possible fuel leak and a subsequent no-fuel situation, which resulted in the airplane landing long on the runway. The pilot stated that he ran off the right side of the runway when he realized he could not stop airplane on the runway. The airplane then collided with a ditch. Examination of the fuel tanks revealed that fuel was present; however, an accurate amount of remaining fuel could not be determined. The pilot's report of a fuel smell in the cockpit could not be confirmed because postaccident examination did not reveal any source of leakage or defects with the fuel system. Examination of the airplane did not reveal any preimpact anomalies or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12LA586 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 20, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Titusville, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Artur Dunn Airpark (X21)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built SONERAI 2L
- N-number
- N127JS
- 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.