On 18 Jan 2019, a Robert R. Reiland Rans S-12 was involved in an aviation accident near Reidsville, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper pitch control during a go-around, which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
During a solo touch and go landing, a light sport airplane pitched forward after a go-around attempt, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Incident Overview
A light sport airplane sustained substantial damage after a hard landing during a solo training flight. The pilot reported that the aircraft began to rise unexpectedly during the flare of his third touch and go landing. In response, he initiated a go-around by applying full engine power, but the airplane nosed forward and contacted the runway hard.
Damage Assessment
The impact caused substantial damage to the wings, the fuselage, and the empennage of the aircraft. The extent of the damage was significant enough to require repairs before the aircraft could be returned to service.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. No other factors were reported as contributing to the event.