Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper control input during landing which resulted in an exceedance of the aircraft’s critical angle of attack, aerodynamic stall and impact with the ground.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the weight-shift aircraft reported that, while on the final approach for landing, he reduced throttle and the aircraft descended quickly. He added power, but instead of pulling back on the control bar, which would have increased his airspeed, he pushed forward on the bar and the wing stalled. The aircraft was about 50 ft above ground level at the time, when it descended rapidly and impacted the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation.