Czech Sport Aircraft A.S. Sport Cruiser N227US accident near Sacramento, California

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to securely lock the canopy before takeoff.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, during the initial climb, he realized that the canopy was not latched properly and had opened. The pilot attempted to secure the canopy, but he was unsuccessful. He decided to terminate the flight and land; however, his airspeed was too fast during the touchdown and the airplane landed hard. The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane slid across the runway. The pilot reported that when the airplane came to rest, he saw that a fuel line had ruptured, and he immediately exited the airplane. The airplane caught fire and was extinguished by first responders.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot reported that this accident could have been prevented if he had checked the canopy after he latched it and noticed the latch didn't catch.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA077 for the full record.