Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate airspeed during landing leading to an aerodynamic stall and subsequent impact with the ground.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that the airplane inadvertently became airborne during a high-speed taxi test. After becoming airborne, the pilot elected to conduct a local flight to test the performance of the airplane and its newly-installed engine. While on approach back to the airport, the pilot stated that he allowed the airplane get too slow, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall at about 25 feet above ground level (agl). The airplane then impacted the ground resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.