The pilot reported that during a go-around at the private airport in Mount Vernon, Iowa, the Just Aircraft SuperStol’s right-wing leading-edge slat retracted to the stowed position, and the airplane rolled to the right.
He attempted to correct with opposite aileron. However the airplane continued the right roll and hit the ground, sustaining substantial damage to both wings, fuselage, and the empennage. The pilot sustained minor injuries in the crash.
According to the airplane kit manufacturer, the wing leading-edge slats are self-deploying and self-stowing.
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during a go-around which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and collision with terrain.
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This September 2024 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Corrective action in any stall situation to stop roll is with rudder ONLY. Aileron use aggravates the stall situation.
I think I’d need to more about this one, such as why the slats self deployed or stowed; was he too slow? If he was not expecting the slat action when it happened – and it is not a normal course of that phase of flight – why is it the pilot’s fault?
Sad how many pilots don’t know that you can pick a wing up with the rudder. Matter of fact you can fly the plane with just rudder and trim never touching the yoke or stick. Accidents will continue due to poor training.