Amateur-built XLS N18XX accident near Liberty, Utah

Jun 24, 2020 · NTSB number WPR20CA195 · Final report

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a fence post during the initial climb.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane departing for the first time from the 750-ft-long, private grass field. During the initial climb, the right main landing gear contacted a steel fence post at the end of the runway. The airplane pitched nose down, yawed, and rolled slightly to the right. The pilot corrected with left aileron and rudder control, but the airplane cartwheeled and impacted a small shed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20CA195 for the full record.

Event

Date
Jun 24, 2020
Type
Accident
Place
Liberty, Utah
Highest injury
Minor
Minor injuries
1
Weather
Visual (VMC)
Light
Day

Amateur-built XLS

N-number
N18XX
Category
Airplane
Year built
2013
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.