aviation accidents

Probable cause: The noncertificated pilot’s decision to practice hovering the helicopter in a confined space, which resulted in the tail rotor striking a tree.

Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees during the approach to land due to the sun glare.

Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.

Probable cause: The pilot’s improper use of the fuel selector, which resulted in fuel starvation to the engine and an off-runway landing.

Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to properly secure the portable GPS and antenna cable, which resulted in the inadvertent landing gear retraction during landing.    

Probable cause: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.

Probable cause: The glider pilot’s failure to maintain pitch during a CG aerotow, which resulted in the loss of control of the tow airplane.

Probable cause: The pilot’s selection of an unsuitable snow-covered airstrip for landing, which resulted in a nose-over.

Probable cause: The student pilot’s failure to relinquish flight controls and premature flap reduction during approach to land.