Probable cause
The student pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.
NTSB analysis
The solo student pilot in the weight-shift-control aircraft reported that he remained in the pattern and was performing full-stop landings. He flared the aircraft too late, and it struck the runway hard.
The aircraft sustained substantial to the center-frame bar and the left wing tubes.
The student reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA554 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 25, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lake Wales, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Lake Wales Muni (X07)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Airborne Edge X Classic
- N-number
- N4557C
- Category
- Weight-shift
- 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.