Pilot Debrief

CZECH AIRCRAFT WORKS SPOL SRO MERMAID near Algonac, MI — 2010-04-01

Final reportCEN10FA182
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Date
2010-04-01
Location
Algonac, MI, USA
Airport
VLL
Aircraft
CZECH AIRCRAFT WORKS SPOL SRO MERMAID
Registration
N853CZ
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of control resulting from an aerodynamic stall/spin while maneuvering at low altitude.

NTSB narrative

Local residents observed the airplane flying low along the river. They reported that it entered a bank in the direction of their residence and at one point the wings were perpendicular to the water. The nose of the airplane suddenly dropped and it descended, ultimately striking the dock and shallow water. The airplane came to rest inverted, partially supported by the boat dock and partially in the river. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine did not identify any anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction. While Diphenhydramine, an over-the-counter antihistamine that commonly results in impaired performance, was found in the pilot’s blood at a level consistent with recent use, the investigation was not able to definitively conclude that the pilot suffered from impairment.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided low altitude maneuvering over the river.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents9

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