Incident Overview
An owner-pilot purchased an airplane in Minnesota and hired an instructor pilot, who had 1,000 hours of experience in the same make and model, to fly the aircraft back to Arizona. The instructor was also to fly daily with the owner-pilot until he became qualified and proficient in the airplane.
Flight and Radar Data
After departure, radar tracking data showed the airplane proceeding to the east practice area. During the flight, the airplane maneuvered between 5,400 and 7,300 feet MSL. The terrain elevation in the area is approximately 3,000 feet MSL. Radar data was recorded for 47 minutes. At a point where the ground speed was indicated as 72 knots, the airplane began a rapid descent. It was lost from radar at an altitude of 4,100 feet MSL.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported seeing the airplane spinning clockwise in the practice area.
Post-Impact Condition
The landing gear and flaps were found in the extended (down) position.