What happened
The pilot was conducting an aerial activity involving a low-altitude pass over the ground. The specific purpose of this maneuver was to allow a rear-seat passenger to shoot at a coyote below. After completing the initial pass, the pilot initiated a right turn to reposition the aircraft for another attempt.
During this turning phase, the aircraft impacted the ground. The pilot reported that the passenger, who was seated in the rear and not wearing a seat belt, had leaned partially out of the open door with his right foot resting on the wing strut. According to the pilot, the passenger's leg came into contact with the control stick. This physical interference prevented the pilot from rolling the aircraft out of the turn.
The passenger sustained a serious head injury in the crash and was unable to recall the specific circumstances surrounding the accident. In the aftermath, the pilot recommended the removal of any rear control sticks in similar aircraft configurations as a preventative measure against future passenger interference with flight controls.
Safety message
Passengers must remain securely seated with seat belts fastened during all phases of flight. Any movement outside the cabin or contact with flight controls can lead to catastrophic loss of control, particularly during low-altitude maneuvers.