Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot did not maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that the accident flight was his first flight in the experimental category airplane. After the preflight check, he took off and flew for 45 minutes without incident. During the approach for landing at 115 knots, the airplane touched down on the main wheels. During the landing roll, as the tail came down, the pilot applied the brakes. The airplane veered to the right and departed the runway. The left landing gear collapsed and the wings sustained substantial damage. A postaccident examination of the brake system revealed no evidence of a mechanical malfunction or failure that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that the accident flight was his first flight in the experimental category airplane. After the preflight check, he took off and flew for 45 minutes without incident. During the approach for landing at 115 knots, the airplane touched down on the main wheels. During the landing roll, and as the tail came down, the pilot applied the brakes. The airplane veered to the right and departed the runway, collapsing the left landing gear and substantially damaging the wings. A postaccident examination of the brake system revealed no evidence of a mechanical malfunction or failure that would have precluded normal operation.