24) IN FLIGHT BREAKUP, U-FIT

Zenith Zodiac CH601 HDS | N6271F

April 30th, 2024 | Bristol, Indiana

Accident Location

  • City: Bristol
  • State: Indiana
  • Latitude: 41.72703
  • Longitude: -85.84397
  • Airport ID:

Aircraft Info

  • N Number: N6271F
  • Make: Zenith
  • Model: Zodiac CH601 HDS
  • Aircraft Category: Aircraft Single Engine Land
  • Amateur Built: Yes

Pilot Info

  • PIC Name: Ridenour, William
  • Gender: Male
  • Pilot Age: 81
  • Pilot Hours:
  • Flight School: No
  • Instructional Flight: No
  • Pilot Certification: Private Pilot
  • IFR Rating: No
  • Pilot Error: No
  • Pilot Medical: Basic Med
  • Pilot Incapacitation: No

Analysis

  • Date: April 30th, 2024
  • Time: 2:20 PM Local Time
  • Day / Night: Day
  • VMC / IMC: VMC
  • Phase Of Flight: Maneuvering
  • Total People Onboard: 2
  • PIC Fatality: 1
  • PAX Fatalities: 1
  • Ground Fatalities: 0
  • Total Fatalities: 2
  • NTSB No: CEN24FA170
  • NTSB Travel: Yes
  • AQP Classification: 24) IN FLIGHT BREAKUP, U-FIT

Probable Cause

DTSB: The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be an in flight mechanical failure from the amateur built aircraft that removed pitch authority from both pilot rated occupants. The aircraft eventually entered a high speed dive and was not ever observed to pull up in any way, suggesting that while both pilots tried to stop the dive, it was not possible at the time.

NTSB: NONE

Recommendation

DTSB: The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all amateur built aircraft conduct frequent and thorough inspections of all systems crucial to pitch and roll authority in these type aircraft.

NTSB: NONE

DISCLAIMER: All data and Probable Cause listings are “Probable” only. They are based on opinion and educated speculation, and are for educational purposes only. They may contain incorrect information and are subject to change as new information becomes available.