Pilot Debrief

THORNTON RV-6A near Plainwell, MI — 2009-05-21

Final reportCEN09LA311
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Date
2009-05-21
Location
Plainwell, MI, USA
Airport
61D
Aircraft
THORNTON RV-6A
Registration
N39JT
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

Several witnesses reported observing the airplane shortly after takeoff flying and executing a number of turns. Prior to impact with terrain, the airplane "barely cleared the trees" and entered a steep left bank. The accident site revealed the left wing impacted terrain and the airplane came to rest upright. A postimpact fire consumed the airplane. Examination of airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation prior to the accident. Each pilot had autopsy evidence of coronary artery disease and a previous heart attack, though it is possible that either or both were not aware of their heart disease. The pilot also had a history of a partial lung obstruction and glaucoma, neither of which appeared to have been causing symptoms or was likely to have affected his performance on the day of the accident. In addition, the pilot-rated passenger had recently ingested a medication containing an over-the-counter sedating antihistamine. The investigation, however, could not determine whether impairment or incapacitation affected either pilot.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided maneuvering after takeoff to maintain altitude.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents8

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