Incident Overview
A student pilot flying a single-engine aircraft intended to visit friends who were on a hunting trip. The pilot decided to land in an open field where the friends were located. During the final approach, the aircraft experienced a high sink rate and subsequently collided with the ground.
Sequence of Events
The pilot informed FAA inspectors that the flight was made to the accident site to meet friends engaged in a hunting expedition. The pilot chose to land in a field where the friends were present. On short final approach, the aircraft developed a high sink rate, leading to a collision with the terrain. The impact caused the main landing gear to shear off the aircraft. The detached landing gear then struck one of the individuals on the ground, resulting in broken legs and a fractured hip.
Pilot Status
An FAA inspector who examined the pilot's documentation reported that the student pilot was not endorsed for solo flight privileges at the time of the accident.
Aircraft and Damage
The aircraft sustained damage when the main landing gear separated from the airframe. The landing gear itself was damaged upon impact and subsequent contact with the person on the ground. No information about the aircraft type, registration, or engine count was provided in the source.
Injuries
One person on the ground suffered serious injuries: both legs and a hip were broken. The source does not specify any injuries to the pilot or other individuals.
Investigation Findings
FAA inspectors investigated the incident and noted the pilot's lack of solo endorsement. The source does not state a probable cause for the accident.