Incident Overview
A Beech 95 aircraft, engaged in multi-engine dual instrument instruction, was conducting practice instrument approaches. After completing an ILS approach to Runway 10, the flight was cleared to enter a south downwind and sequenced to follow a PSA BAE-146. The Beech 95 crew reported the BAE-146 in sight and were cleared to follow it.
Witness Account
A witness, who had been observing the BAE-146's landing, shifted attention to the Beech 95 some distance behind the commercial aircraft. The witness reported the Beech 95 was in a steep nose-down descent toward the ground, in a right spin. The aircraft impacted terrain in approximately a 125-degree nose-down attitude.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact part failure or malfunction. However, the aircraft was found configured for a possible simulated engine-out approach. Specifically:
- The rudder trim tab and indicator were found with approximately 20 to 22 degrees of deflection.
- The left and right tachometers indicated 1900 and 2700 RPM, respectively.
- The flaps and flap actuators were found in a retracted position.
The in-flight separation distance between the Beech 95 and the BAE-146 was not determined. Tower personnel did not provide a wake turbulence advisory.