Introduction
A student pilot and instructor pilot were conducting a training flight in an aircraft model that was new to both of them. The student had never flown with that particular instructor before. The flight proceeded normally until arriving in the designated training area.
Flight Details
Shortly after entering the training area, witnesses observed the airplane enter a spin and descend to the ground. No mechanical discrepancies were found during the subsequent examination of the wreckage. The elevator trim was discovered in the full nose-up position.
Weight and Loading
The airplane was determined to be over its maximum gross weight at the time of takeoff and also at the time of the accident. The excess weight may have affected the aircraft's handling characteristics.
Pilot Experience
Both pilots had accumulated the majority of their flight time in another make and model of aircraft. That aircraft differs in terms of spin recovery procedures and useful load above full fuel compared to the accident aircraft. The pilots were not yet familiar with the specific handling qualities of the new model.