Accident Overview
During a local flight, the aircraft collided with terrain while the aircrew were performing low-altitude maneuvers. The accident occurred as the aircraft was engaged in turning maneuvers at approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL). Witnesses on the ground reported seeing the aircraft execute an abrupt maneuver similar to an aerial application turn before it struck the ground.
Flight Crew Information
The aircraft carried two occupants: a certified flight instructor (CFI) and a private pilot. Neither individual claimed to be the pilot in command at the time of the accident. The private pilot was the registered owner of the aircraft. According to available reports, the CFI had no previous flight time in this make and model of aircraft. The owner-pilot had logged only 2.1 hours of flight time in the same make and model.
Witness Observations
Witnesses stated that the aircraft was performing low turns at an altitude of about 50 feet AGL. They observed the aircraft enter an abrupt maneuver, which they described as similar to an agricultural turn. Shortly after initiating that maneuver, the aircraft impacted the ground.