Incident Overview
An airplane engaged in banner towing operations was observed overflying an airport from south southwest to north northeast at an altitude of about 100 feet above ground level (AGL). The aircraft was flying at a slow airspeed, typical for a banner drop. At the same time, another airplane was seen approaching from the south at about 25 feet AGL, traveling at a high rate of speed consistent with a banner pickup.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that the first airplane dropped its banner and began to climb out. The aircraft was slow and in a steep climb. They then observed the airplane's wings rock back and forth. Subsequently, the right wing and nose dropped suddenly. The airplane descended to the ground in what witnesses described as a "right hand spin rotation." The aircraft came to rest in a church parking lot.
Sequence of Events
Multiple witnesses stated that the second airplane picked up the banner and began to climb out almost simultaneously with the accident aircraft, and in close proximity to it. No further details regarding the second airplane's actions or the outcome of its flight were provided. The investigation did not specify the aircraft types, registration numbers, operator, date, time of day, weather conditions, or whether there were any occupants or injuries.