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TRAINING & SAFETY
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High Desert Disaster

Accident Case Study

In November 2021, a novice backcountry pilot lost control of his Zenith STOL CH 701 on final approach to a remote airstrip in California’s Mojave Desert.

A too-low approach and challenging wind conditions surprise the pilot, and he overshoots the runway’s centerline on the desert floor. That leads to a stall-spin accident which kills him and his pilot-rated passenger.

Join the AOPA Air Safety Institute as we examine the circumstances that led to the flight’s tragic outcome.

The Accident Case Study series uses FAA information, NTSB documentation, and video animation to recreate accidents and share critical lessons, so we can recognize and avoid similar mistakes.

Tablet: Compatible
Length: 13 mins
Topic: Backcountry, STOL, Takeoffs and Landings
FAA WINGS: Not eligible
Accident Forgiveness: Eligible

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This video qualifies for AOPA Accident Forgiveness.