Incident Details
Approximately five minutes after takeoff, the pilot became incapacitated and was unable to maintain control of the aircraft. A non-certificated passenger aboard the aircraft assumed control of the flight.
Assistance and Landing
The passenger received instructions from an airborne flight instructor and from an instructor in the control tower at Volk ANG Base. With this assistance, the passenger was able to execute a landing. However, the aircraft was damaged during the occurrence.
Medical Examination
A pathological examination of the pilot revealed a complete dissection of the ascending aorta, which was circumferential and located 3 cm above the aortic valve. The examination also found cystic medial necrosis and a subsequent cardiac tamponade.