Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional/pitch control during final approach, resulting in a collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he was practicing touch-and-go landings. On his third landing he encountered what he believed was wind variable at 350 degrees to 040 degrees about 15 feet above the ground which lifted the airplane's left wing upward, the tail wheel struck a marker cone while on the final approach. Subsequently the right wing came in contact with the ground which resulted in damage to the right wing spar and right aileron.
The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA017 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 18, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Greensboro, North Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Air Harbor (W88)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
American Champion Aircraft 7GCAA
- N-number
- N43MT
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1997
- 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.