Probable cause
The pilot’s unstabilized approach, which resulted in the biplane being low and striking trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the approach to land, the biplane was low and to the right of the runway centerline. He further reported that to recover from the low altitude he added power, but the biplane struck a tree, which impaired its controllability. Subsequently, the biplane glided into small tree(s) and brush and came to rest nose down.
The biplane sustained substantial damage to all four wings and struts.
The pilot reported that 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 GAA17CA087 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 4, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- North Hampton, New Hampshire
- Nearest airport
- Hampton Airfield (7B3)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built CELEBRITY
- N-number
- N28JF
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2011
- 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.