Beech 56 N12WB accident near Hudson, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing. Contributing to the accident was the distraction of the open cabin door.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that prior to the takeoff roll, his son, who was positioned in the front right seat, had difficulty shutting and locking the cabin door. The pilot reported that he reached over and ensured the door was locked.

The pilot reported that shortly after liftoff the cabin door came open. He maneuvered the airplane to stay in the traffic pattern and return to land. He reported that while on final he did not have any rudder authority and was unable to keep directional control. The pilot reported that prior to the initial impact he lost sight of the runway when the airplane pitched up and rolled left simultaneously. Subsequently the left wing impacted the ground and sustained substantial damage.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA060 for the full record.