The Airplane Ballooned About 10 Ft Above The Runway When It Encountered A Wind Gust

Location: Sturgis, Michigan Accident Number: CEN25LA369
Date & Time: September 7, 2025, 10:20 Local Registration: N22LZ
Aircraft: Zodiac CH 650B Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Flight test

Analysis: The pilot was conducting takeoffs and landings in the airplane at the time of the accident. According to the pilot, the initial takeoff and landing were completed without incident. The second takeoff was uneventful; however, on final approach for the second landing, the airplane ballooned about 10 ft above the runway when it encountered a wind gust. The pilot reported that he was late in initiating a go-around. The airplane bounced and then impacted on the nose landing gear resulting in the collapse. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the forward fuselage and right wing.

The pilot noted that the wind increased from about 4 knots at the beginning of the flight, to about 10 knots with gusts to 15 knots. He stated there were no failures or malfunctions associated with the airplane before the accident. He added that additional airspeed on approach during gusty wind conditions might have prevented the accident. 

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 control while landing.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov