Pilot Debrief

LUSCOMBE 8A near Savannah, GA — 2010-03-05

Final reportERA10LA164
Sign in to save
Date
2010-03-05
Location
Savannah, GA, USA
Airport
GA39
Aircraft
LUSCOMBE 8A
Registration
N45976
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and inadvertent stall after takeoff.

NTSB narrative

Prior to engine start, the pilot advised the witness that he intended to fly for about 45 minutes and remain close to the departure airport. The witness performed a hand start of the airplane for the pilot. After the second attempt, the engine started and the witness stated everything sounded and appeared normal but the takeoff appeared a little wobbly, but quite normal considering the breezy conditions. He repeated that he noticed nothing out of the ordinary with the pilot, the engine, or the airplane. The witness departed the airport before the pilot was expected to return that afternoon. The airplane was located submerged in a pond, about 100 yards off the departure end of the runway, the following day. There were no witnesses to the accident. Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The damage was indicative of a low-power, low-speed, aerodynamic stall and collision with water. Post mortem examination of the pilot revealed the presence of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease and hypertensive heart disease, and the recent use of antidepressants, anti-anxiety, and painkilling medications. It was not known to what degree, if any, these issues affected the outcome of the flight. The pilot's most recent medical certificate was issued 19 years prior to the accident, but he was not required to hold a current one while operating as a sport pilot.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen not to fly given potential medical issues and medication effects.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 9 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents9

Related mishaps