Upon Exiting The Runway, The Airplane Struck A Runway Distance Remaining Sign

Location: Fort Myers, Florida Accident Number: ERA24LA129
Date & Time: March 3, 2024, 14:05 Local Registration: N729CJ
Aircraft: American Legend Aircraft Co AL11 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Analysis: The piloted reported while practicing takeoffs and landings, on her third approach to land, the air traffic control tower reported an 8-knot crosswind. During touchdown, she reported that the airplane bounced several times and subsequently during the landing roll, the wind shifted, and the airplane pulled to the left. The pilot attempted to maintain directional control, but the airplane continued its path to the left and departed the runway into the grass. Upon exiting the runway, the airplane struck a runway distance remaining sign, which substantially damaged the left wing and collapsed the left main landing gear.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing with a crosswind.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov