Incident Overview
Witnesses observed the aircraft suddenly initiate a vertical climb from a straight and level flight attitude. During the climb, the airplane lost momentum, then nosed down and dove toward the ground. Upon impact, the aircraft exploded and was destroyed in a post-crash fire.
Impact Analysis
Examination of crush lines on the fuselage and deformities on the wings indicated that the angle of main impact was approximately 46 degrees below the horizontal plane.
Flight Control Examination
Attachment, continuity, and correct travel were established on all primary and secondary flight control surfaces and systems. No anomalies were found that would have prevented normal control.
Powerplant Inspection
An engine teardown inspection produced no evidence that would suggest the occurrence of an in-flight powerplant failure.