Probable cause
The failure of the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft.
NTSB analysis
The non-qualified pilot initiated a takeoff to the west in a weight-shift aircraft. Winds prevailed from the south at the time. After becoming airborne he was unable to maintain control of the aircraft which descended, collided with trees, and then impacted the edge of a canal. No evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction with the aircraft was noted.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for MIA08LA162 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 9, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Boynton Beach, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Willis Gliderport (FA44)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
North Wing APACHE CLA
- N-number
- N3880A
- Category
- Weight-shift
- 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.