On May 9, 2012, a FLIGHT DESIGN GMBH CTLS operated by ON FILE was involved in an aviation accident near Moorhead, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure to maintain adequate airspeed for the wind conditions during landing, which resulted in a loss of airplane control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 17 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On short final for runway 12, the airplane stalled after encountering a wind gust. The pilot applied controls, but the airplane landed hard, departed the runway, entered a ditch, and nosed over. No mechanical problems were reported.
Sequence of Events
The pilot overflew the airport prior to landing to verify wind conditions. The windsock indicated a slight crosswind for the landing. While on short final approach for runway 12, the airplane encountered a wind gust. The pilot applied rudder and aileron to compensate for the wind conditions. The airplane then stalled above the runway and landed hard. After landing, the airplane departed the runway surface, entered a ditch, nosed over, and came to rest inverted.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane's wings and fuselage were bent and cracked. The pilot reported no mechanical problems prior to the accident.
Wind Conditions
The pilot reported that the wind was 220 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 14 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 May 2012 FLIGHT DESIGN GMBH CTLS accident near Moorhead, MN?
On short final for runway 12, the airplane stalled after encountering a wind gust. The pilot applied controls, but the airplane landed hard, departed the runway, entered a ditch, and nosed over. No mechanical problems were reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 9 May 2012 FLIGHT DESIGN GMBH CTLS accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 May 2012 involved a FLIGHT DESIGN GMBH CTLS, operated by ON FILE, at Moorhead, MN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure to maintain adequate airspeed for the wind conditions during landing, which resulted in a loss of airplane control.