Accident Overview
An aircraft collided with the ground in a nose-low attitude while flying in the traffic pattern to land. The aircraft came to rest after striking the ground at a nose-low angle of 27 degrees. No ground scars were found beyond the initial point of contact; the lower fuselage dug approximately 16 inches into the ground.
Witness Observations
Witnesses described the traffic pattern as being close in, slow, and low compared to normal traffic. They noted the aircraft's attitude as nose high. As the aircraft turned to final approach, the left wing dropped, and the aircraft entered a steep nose-down descent, culminating in the impact.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the aircraft revealed no problems. No mechanical or structural issues were identified that could have contributed to the event.
Pilot Training
Investigation into the pilot's training revealed an unusual history. The pilot's first 31 hours of "dual" instruction were unsigned, and a witness stated that this instruction was given by a private pilot. The remaining 46 hours of instruction came from two different instructors: approximately 11 hours from one and about 4 hours from the other.