On May 14, 2016, a CIRRUS DESIGN CORP SR20 NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near South St Paul, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive nose high pitch attitude, which resulted in a tail strike during the landing flare. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing flare, the airplane impacted the ground with a nose-high pitch attitude, causing a tail strike and substantial rudder damage. The pilot taxied to the ramp without further incident. No preimpact mechanical failures were reported.
Incident Overview
The pilot reported that during the landing flare, the airplane contacted the ground while in a slightly nose-high pitch attitude. This resulted in a tail strike. The pilot subsequently taxied the airplane to the ramp area without any additional issues.
Damage Assessment
A postaccident examination conducted by the pilot revealed substantial damage to the rudder. No other damage was specified in the report.
Mechanical Status
According to the pilot, there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Pitch control — Not attained/maintainedPilot
Related events
Same aircraft family
14 Aug 2026 — CIRRUS DESIGN CORP SF50 (Vision71 LLC)
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