On April 29, 2007, a Flight Design CTSW (registration N22QT) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Meade, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusty wind conditions during the landing flare, resulting in a loss of control, and an in-flight collision with terrain. A factor associated with the accident was the wind gusts. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach in gusty conditions, the airplane rolled left, causing the left wingtip to strike the ground. The aircraft cartwheeled, resulting in substantial damage. No mechanical issues were found.
Accident Details
According to an FAA inspector who interviewed the student pilot, the accident occurred during the final approach to land in gusty wind conditions. The student pilot reported that the airplane rolled left, and the left wingtip struck the ground. Subsequently, the airplane cartwheeled, sustaining substantial damage to both the wings and fuselage.
Mechanical Examination
The FAA inspector stated that the student pilot reported no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. Additionally, the FAA inspector examined the aircraft and found no flight control or mechanical anomalies.
Weather Conditions
Winds recorded at a nearby reporting station were from 310 degrees at 11 knots, with gusts to 19 knots. The gusty conditions were present at the time of the accident.