Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing flare at night, which resulted in an impact with a runway light and runway sign.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing flare at night he used his peripheral vision to keep the airplane in the center of the runway, but when the nose touched down, the airplane was to the left of centerline. The pilot further reported that the airplane continued to veer to the left and impacted a runway light and a runway identification sign.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA334 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 25, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kokomo, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Kokomo Muni (OKK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night, dark
Amateur-built LIGHTNING
- N-number
- N316H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2007
- 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.