The Right Wing Impacted A Standing Dead Tree With No Leaves

Location: Ozark, Arkansas Accident Number: CEN25LA312
Date & Time: August 9, 2025, 09:30 Local Registration: N95356
Aircraft: Taylorcraft BC12 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The airplane departed from the backcountry airstrip, located in a national forest, with the intent of repositioning to another nearby backcountry airstrip by a river. Both privately-owned backcountry airstrips are located on the same property. While on the downwind leg, the pilot performed a turn to establish himself on the base leg. During the turn, the right wing impacted a standing dead tree with no leaves. The airplane came to rest on its right side in a forested area. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and the empennage.

The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or the engine that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot noted that the accident could have been prevented by operating at a higher altitude and paying more attention to the airplane’s proximity to the trees in the area.

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 clearance from a tree which resulted in the right wing impacting the tree and a subsequent collision with trees and terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s decision to operate the airplane at a low altitude over trees. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov