Probable cause
The noncertificated pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from residential buildings and trees in gusting wind conditions.
NTSB analysis
According to a local news report, after the accident, the noncertificated pilot stated, "The wind got the better of me and the near-death experience is pretty interesting." He further stated, "I tried to level out before the crash into the house and aimed for the tree. I thought we were dead and I pulled the yoke as far as I could to get the elevation leveled out, which saved our life. I hit the tree with the wing and we spun and landed." Subsequently, the airplane came to rest in the residential neighborhood.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.
After multiple requests, the noncertificated pilot failed to submit the National Transportation Safety Board Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.
The automated weather observation system at the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 320° at 17 knots, gusting to 25 knots. The pilot departed on runway 29.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA375 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 30, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Tehachapi, California
- Nearest airport
- Tehachapi Muni (TSP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RADIO FLYER
- N-number
- N385MU
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2009
- 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.