Amateur-built JSX-2 N458V accident near Chesterfield, Missouri

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to ensure that the canopy was properly secured before takeoff, which resulted in an unstable landing flare and hard landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, after takeoff, about "100 ft. above ground level," the canopy opened and the airplane became "very hard to control." He added that he was able to return to the airport to land; however, during the approach, the airplane was unstable due to the "pitching and yawing." Subsequently, during the landing flare, when he reduced engine power, the airplane touched down hard, and the landing gear collapsed. The airplane exited the runway to the right and came to rest nose down.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA272 for the full record.