On August 2, 1990, a Piper PA-18 (registration N9239T) operated by Oak Island Flight Academy was involved in an aviation accident near Southport, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE ENTRY INTO A FLAT SPIN WHICH PRECLUDED RECOVERY BY THE PILOT. THE REASON FOR THE SPIN BECOMING FLAT COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an intentional spin maneuver, the aircraft entered a flat spin, completing 7 to 8 turns before ground impact. The nose dropped slightly on the final turn. Weight and balance were within limits. The reason for the flat spin and failure to recover was not determined.
Accident Overview
A pilot intentionally entered a spin maneuver during a flight. According to witnesses, the spin immediately became 'flat' after initiation. The aircraft completed approximately 7 to 8 rotations before colliding with the ground. During the last rotation, witnesses reported that the nose dropped slightly.
Weight and Balance
Post-accident weight and balance calculations indicated that the aircraft should have been operating within utility category limitations at the time of the accident. This parameter was examined as part of the investigation to assess potential contributing factors.
Investigation Outcome
Despite analysis, investigators were unable to determine why the spin became flat or why the pilot failed to regain control of the airplane. The probable cause of the accident remains undetermined.
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