What happened
The aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup while descending through the airspace. Prior to the incident, the pilot had contacted Kansas City ARTCC via radio to report experiencing severe chest pains and shortness of breath. At the time of the communication, the pilot stated he was manually flying the aircraft.
Radar contact with the plane was lost at 1425 CST. Witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft emerging from the clouds in a spin. They reported seeing separate pieces of the aircraft falling after the main portions had already descended. The witnesses also noted hearing engine sounds that gave the impression the aircraft was performing aerobatic maneuvers.
The investigation
Investigation into the incident revealed significant medical issues affecting the pilot's ability to operate the aircraft safely. An autopsy report determined that the cause of death for the pilot was atherosclerotic coronary artery heart disease.
Medical records indicated that the pilot had been hospitalized in October 1992 due to chest pains and was tested for coronary problems, though no evidence of coronary disease was found at that time. He was treated for hypertension but reportedly did not take his prescribed medication.
Findings
The sequence of events suggests a sudden medical incapacitation led to the loss of aircraft control. The pilot's failure to manage his hypertension and ignore medical advice contributed to the acute cardiac event. The fatal outcome was directly linked to the atherosclerotic coronary artery heart disease which caused the in-flight emergency.
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