Probable cause
A control system anomaly, which resulted in the overload and failure of one of the propulsion motor systems during the transition from hover to forward flight.
NTSB analysis
According to the manufacturer/operator, the unmanned aircraft took off in light and variable winds for a test flight. After a nominal hover and entry into transition from vertical to forward flight, it experienced control and estimation anomalies. During the ensuing upset sequence, one of the motor pods failed due to high load, further limiting recovery capability. The aircraft departed controlled flight and impacted terrain on an adjacent taxiway. The aircraft was destroyed during the accident sequence, and there were no injuries or damage to property.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA115 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 2, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Atwater, California
- Nearest airport
- Castle (MER)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mightyfly Inc MF-100
- N-number
- N258MF
- Category
- Unknown
- Year built
- 2023
- Damage
- Destroyed
- 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.