Probable cause
The pilot’s improper throttle input during an approach, which resulted in a rapid descent, hard landing and runway excursion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was performing a test flight in his experimental amateur-built airplane to determine the appropriate power setting for approach. During an approach to land after 5 consecutive go-arounds, he reduced all engine power, which resulted in a rapid descent and hard landing. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the dirt strip and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the empennage, wings and fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA049 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 20, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Shady Cove, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Shady Cove Airpark (OG31)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built STOL CH 701
- N-number
- N43AH
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1998
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Flight test
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.