Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear and the flight instructor’s lack of recognition and inadequate remedial action, which resulted in a gear up landing.
NTSB
Fatal Accident Rate Down So Far in FY 2026
The estimated GA fatal accident rate for fiscal year 2026, which began October 2025, is at 0.47 accidents per 100,000 flight hours as of Jan. 15, 2026, “well below the yearly target of 0.91,” according to officials.
Student Loses Control During Crosswind Landing
Probable Cause: The student pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane during the crosswind landing, which resulted in the airplane drifting off the left side of the runway and into trees.
What Can We Learn From Studying 100 Years of Aviation Research?
Analyzing more than 1,600 aviation-related studies published between 1937 and 2023, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University researchers discovered that human error remains the leading cause of aviation accidents, responsible for nearly 75% of all general aviation accidents in recent years.
Glider Pilot Injured When Tow Plane Loses Power
Probable Cause: The glider pilot’s failure to release from the towline after the tow plane experienced a loss of engine power.
Carb Icing Leads To Total Loss Of Engine Power
Probable Cause: The total loss of engine power due to carburetor icing and the pilot’s failure to utilize carburetor heat in meteorological conditions conducive to the formation of carburetor icing.
Engine Failure Leads To Forced Landing
Probable Cause: The disruption of torque to the No 4 connecting rod journals, which resulted in a spun bearing and the subsequent total loss of engine power.
Takeoff From Private Airstrip Fatal For Two
Probable Cause: The pilot’s collision with a fence while taking off from a snow-covered dirt airstrip.
Pilot loses control during go-around
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane during a go-around in gusting crosswind conditions.