Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 13 hours ago
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 base-to-final turn 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.
This video is proudly sponsored by Sporty's. Quality supplies and training products for pilots - aopa.org/about/aopa-partners/sportys-pilot-shop
Apply credit to your ASI transcript for watching this video: bit.ly/ACSHighDesertCert
A Message from ASI Staff:
We share a deep passion for aviation safety. As compassionate pilots, we bring together safety research, analysis, and knowledge in creative ways to share aviation safety education with you—with the ultimate goal of one day having zero fatal accidents in GA. If you find this information valuable, please consider a donation to support our work. bit.ly/AOPASafetyDonate
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest community of pilots in the world, providing aviation advocacy, education & inspiration. AOPA has represented the freedom to fly for all pilots since 1939. To learn more about becoming a member visit aopa.org/joinforsafety
Check out the Air Safety Institute Website:
aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute
Follow AOPA on X:
https://x.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Instagram:
instagram.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Facebook:
facebook.com/flywithaopa
#aopa #flywithaopa #aviation #pilot #flying
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 base-to-final turn 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.
This video is proudly sponsored by Sporty's. Quality supplies and training products for pilots - aopa.org/about/aopa-partners/sportys-pilot-shop
Apply credit to your ASI transcript for watching this video: bit.ly/ACSHighDesertCert
A Message from ASI Staff:
We share a deep passion for aviation safety. As compassionate pilots, we bring together safety research, analysis, and knowledge in creative ways to share aviation safety education with you—with the ultimate goal of one day having zero fatal accidents in GA. If you find this information valuable, please consider a donation to support our work. bit.ly/AOPASafetyDonate
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest community of pilots in the world, providing aviation advocacy, education & inspiration. AOPA has represented the freedom to fly for all pilots since 1939. To learn more about becoming a member visit aopa.org/joinforsafety
Check out the Air Safety Institute Website:
aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute
Follow AOPA on X:
https://x.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Instagram:
instagram.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Facebook:
facebook.com/flywithaopa
#aopa #flywithaopa #aviation #pilot #flying
