Introduction
A pilot reported an accident involving a light-sport weight-shift-control airplane in a remote mountainous area. The incident occurred while the pilot was attempting to land on a plateau after recovering from a stall.
Accident Sequence
The pilot departed the airport and flew southbound along the western slopes of the Teton Mountain Range. The airplane climbed to an altitude of about 8,000 feet mean sea level, then the pilot changed course to approach a canyon area to the east. As he approached rising terrain, the airplane's rate of climb began to reduce. Despite ridges encroaching from left and right, he elected to continue flight toward a plateau. He attempted to increase the rate of climb, but the airspeed subsequently decreased. As the airplane approached stall speed, the pilot encountered a gust of wind and the airplane stalled. He lowered the nose and recovered control about 20 feet above ground level. He then attempted to land ahead on the plateau. During the landing roll, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the airplane rolled onto the right wing.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained serious injuries during the accident sequence. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.
Post-Accident Actions
The accident site was located in a remote area at the 9,800-foot level on the western slope of the mountain range. The pilot used a SPOT Global Positioning System (GPS) emergency locator to summon assistance from search and rescue personnel, who located him about 2 hours after the accident.
No Mechanical Failure
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.