BUTLER JOHN R SX 300
Truth or Consequences, NM — January 3, 2012
Event Information
| Date | January 3, 2012 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN12CA121 |
| Event ID | 20120104X41711 |
| Location | Truth or Consequences, NM |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 33.23695, -107.27167 |
| Airport | Truth or Consequences Municipa |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | BUTLER JOHN R |
| Model | SX 300 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot did not maintain airplane control during takeoff due to his distraction with the improperly secured canopy, which he forgot to latch.
Full Narrative
Prior to takeoff, the pilot forgot to properly latch the canopy. Shortly after rotation, the pilot noticed the canopy had partially opened. Subsequently, the airplane contacted the runway and the landing gear collapsed. The airplane came to rest upright on the side of the runway. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed the fuselage was bent and buckled. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.