Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a loss of directional control and subsequent impact with approach lighting.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, during the landing flare the airplane was fast, and he tried to bleed off the airspeed by applying back pressure, but the airplane ballooned. Upon touchdown the airplane porpoised, after which, the airplane veered to the left and exited the left side of the runway. The airplane impacted the visual approach slope indicator lights that were located on the left side of the runway.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and the fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA065 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 24, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Northampton, Massachusetts
- Nearest airport
- Northampton (7B2)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aveko Sro VL-3C-1
- N-number
- N876MB
- 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.