Amateur-built Drifter 912 N5318F accident near Homestead, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a turn to the final approach leg of the traffic pattern, resulting in an accelerated stall.

NTSB analysis

The non-certificated pilot was performing practice emergency landings with the engine at an idle setting. While on the approach, he maneuvered the airplane in a right bank to transition from the base to final approach leg of the traffic pattern. During the turn, the right wing stalled and the airplane began a spin. The pilot reported that as he recovered the airplane from the dive it simultaneously collided with the terrain in a wings-level attitude. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine. He further stated that accident could have been prevented if he had maintained a higher airspeed and attempted a shallower, coordinated bank.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for LAX08LA130 for the full record.