On 1 Jul 2008, a Pipistrel Virus 912 was involved in an aviation accident near Bend, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot opined that the aircraft had 'too much energy' during the landing sequence. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A powered glider veered off the runway during landing, went down an embankment, and nosed over after the main gear encountered soft terrain. The pilot reported no mechanical issues and cited excessive energy as the cause.
Incident Overview
A pilot was performing an approach to the destination airport in a powered glider. The aircraft touched down and bounced, then began to veer to the right of the runway centerline. It unexpectedly swerved to the left, and the pilot could not regain control. The aircraft continued off the runway surface and down an embankment. The main landing gear encountered soft terrain, and the aircraft nosed over.
Pilot Report
In a written statement, the pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine. He noted that winds were calm. When queried as to the cause of the accident, the pilot opined that the aircraft had "too much energy" during the landing sequence.
Probable cause
The pilot opined that the aircraft had 'too much energy' during the landing sequence.
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationPilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained