Amateur-built 235 N35FW accident near Chester, Connecticut

Probable cause

The pilot's unstable approach, which resulted in a hard landing, and the separation of the left main landing gear.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane was on short final approach when he “sensed a severe rate of descent.” He attempted to flare; however, the airplane landed hard on the displaced runway threshold. The pilot further reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Airport video revealed that as the airplane touched, the left main gear fractured, and the airplane bounced, touched down again, traveled down an embankment, and impacted an airport hangar. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA20LA337 for the full record.