What happened
The rear seat passenger reported that the flight instructor permitted the front seat passenger to execute the takeoff procedure while providing verbal guidance through the steps. Shortly after the aircraft lifted off the runway, both passengers in the rear seat heard a warning buzzer sound. This audible alert continued without interruption until the moment of ground impact.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the condition and statements of the occupants to determine the sequence of events. The flight instructor sustained serious injuries during the incident. Due to the severity of these injuries, the instructor was unable to recall any specific details regarding the accident or the events leading up to it.
Findings
The primary finding relates to the operational control and communication within the cockpit during the critical phase of flight. The instructor delegated the physical control of the takeoff to a passenger while attempting to manage the procedure verbally. The presence of a warning buzzer that persisted until impact suggests a systemic or configuration issue that was not addressed or acknowledged by the crew before the accident occurred.
Safety message
This incident highlights the risks associated with allowing passengers to manipulate flight controls during critical phases such as takeoff, especially when auditory warnings are active. Clear communication and immediate response to cockpit alerts are essential for maintaining safety.