Airborne Windsports Edge X N123NY accident near Ocala, Florida

Probable cause

The noncertificated pilot's exceedance of the aircraft's critical angle of attack, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.

NTSB analysis

The noncertificated pilot, who had been receiving flight instruction from another noncertificated pilot, was performing his first solo flight in the weight-shift control experimental light-sport aircraft. After departure, the aircraft climbed to about 100 ft above ground level, veered side to side, dropped nose down, and impacted terrain. A witness to the accident flight stated the engine ran smoothly throughout the flight. Thus, it is likely that the aircraft exceeded its critical angle of attack during initial climb, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall at an altitude too low to recover.

Toxicology testing found that diphenhydramine and topiramate, both of which are potentially impairing drugs, were present in the pilot's specimens at levels that were too low to be quantified; thus, it is unlikely that the pilot's use of these medications contributed to the accident.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA19LA094 for the full record.