On 24 Mar 2010, a HARDIE JAMES D KIT FOX XL was involved in an aviation accident near Willows, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the pilot performing an improper flare, which led to a bounced landing and a subsequent ground loop. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A Kitfox XL aircraft experienced a ground loop during landing, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.
What happened
On March 24, 2010, a Kitfox XL, registration N42JH, was involved in an accident during the landing phase at Willows, California. The pilot reported that the aircraft flared too high during the approach, which led to a bounced landing. While attempting to recover from the bounce, the aircraft swerved to the right and entered a ground loop. The aircraft eventually came to rest in the grass area adjacent to the runway.
There were no injuries reported in the accident. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its fuselage. The pilot indicated that no mechanical failures or malfunctions occurred prior to the event. Weather conditions at the time were Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) with visibility of 40 statute miles.
Probable cause
The accident was caused by the pilot performing an improper flare, which led to a bounced landing and a subsequent ground loop.
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot