Pilot Debrief

AeroFab Lake LA-250 near Skaneateles, NY — 2008-04-18

Final reportMIA08FA091
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Date
2008-04-18
Location
Skaneateles, NY, USA
Airport
6B9
Aircraft
AeroFab Lake LA-250
Registration
N14037
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The certified flight instructor's failure to maintain airspeed during a steep turn.

NTSB narrative

According to a witness, he was outside in his yard when he saw the accident airplane flying north of his house. The airplane then turned on its side and continued to descend. Shortly thereafter, he heard the engine “rev-up,” and the next thing he heard was a “crunching noise.” He drove in the direction of the airport, and saw the tail of the airplane in a wooded area. The paramedics stated that the certified flight instructor (CFI) was alert, conscious and oriented. The CFI told them that he and the private pilot were simulating an engine failure and that he “lost airspeed thus causing the crash.” The CFI did not report any flight control or mechanical anomalies with the airplane. Examination of the airframe and flight control system components revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction. Examination of the engine and system components revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Instructor should have ensured proper airspeed during simulated engine failure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents12

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