Flight History
The airplane was part of an airshow act that portrayed a 'student pilot' flying the airplane without a flight instructor. Video footage captured the airplane flying level at approximately 100 feet above the ground. The airplane then pitched up about 5 degrees, followed by a pitch-down as it initiated a left turn. During the turn, the bank angle increased to about 90 degrees, and the airplane pitched down to about 30 degrees below level flight at the 90-degree point in its turn. The airplane continued to pitch down until it collided with the ground.
Video Recording
Analysis of the video tape revealed that the airplane's rudder moved left and right during its descent. The aileron control position indicated a right bank input, and the elevator was in the up position for the last half of the flight.
On-Scene Investigation
The on-scene investigation revealed no anomalies with the airplane's flight control system or engine that would have prevented flight. The examination found no mechanical failures or malfunctions that could explain the loss of control.
Weather
Surface winds were reported at 15 to 20 knots with gusts to 28 knots. The wind conditions may have affected the airplane's handling, but no direct causal link was established in the investigation.