LANCAIR EVOLUTION N469KS accident near Phoenix, Arizona

Probable cause

A malfunction of the main cabin door latching mechanism for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while climbing through 22,000 ft mean sea level on a cross-country flight, the main cabin door departed the airplane. The pilot immediately diverted and landed uneventfully at a nearby airport. The door was not recovered. The horizontal and vertical stabilizers sustained substantial damage due to impact from the door as it departed the airplane.

The kit manufacturer reported two previous door failures that had prompted the issuance of an inspection advisory to inspect the door for cracks. This inspection was not performed on the accident airplane; however, postaccident examination revealed no damage to the hinges and door latch anchors, all of which were still connected at the frame. Because the door was not recovered and could not be examined, the reason for its separation could not be determined based on the available information.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA142 for the full record.