Amateur-built LIGHTNING XS N929XS accident near New Port Richey, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he was attempting to land the airplane on a 4,425-ft-long asphalt runway. During his first approach, the airplane was too high and he performed a go-around. During the second approach, the airplane floated for about 1,000 ft in ground effect before touchdown. The pilot applied gently braking initially, but then heavier braking as the airplane neared the end of the runway. During the heavy braking, the airplane veered left off the runway and onto grass. It traveled into a ditch before coming to rest upright. The forward portion of the fuselage, including the engine mounts, were substantially damaged during the accident sequence. The pilot added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA26LA090 for the full record.