Low-Altitude Maneuvering Precedes Luscombe Accident (N71347)

Background

The pilot involved in the accident had not flown the Luscombe aircraft for two years prior to the incident. His estimated total flight time in that specific make and model was 10 hours.

Witness Accounts

Witnesses on the ground reported observing two airplanes maneuvering and circling at low altitude above trees and highlines. One witness stated that the gray airplane was seen banking to the left and descending from approximately 200 feet to 50 feet above the ground before impacting the terrain. Another witness described what appeared to be a roll maneuver executed very close to the ground; the aircraft was not seen to recover from this maneuver. A separate witness observed the airplane performing a left-turning maneuver at about 50 feet above the ground just before the collision with terrain.

Investigation

Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or system failures. The airplane came to rest 16 feet from the initial ground scars. The investigation did not assign a probable cause.