Incident Overview
A passenger-parachutist stated that after exiting the cabin and standing on the jump platform at approximately 3,500 feet, the left wing and nose dropped, and the aircraft entered a spin to the left. After an unknown number of revolutions, she jumped from the aircraft and deployed her parachute. She observed the aircraft continue in a spin until ground impact.
Witness Observations
The parachutist reported that the engine sounded normal prior to the spin. She also noted that the aircraft appeared to be flying at a slower than normal speed as she exited, based on less wind forces acting on her.
Postcrash Examination
A postcrash examination of the aircraft structure, flight controls, engine, and propeller showed no evidence of precrash mechanical failure or malfunction.
Pilot Records
A review of the pilot's logbook and flight training records from the university he attended showed no record of having performed spins or spin recoveries in an aircraft. The records indicated he received ground instruction in spin entry and spin recovery techniques.
Regulatory Context
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations require that a private or commercial pilot receive ground instruction in spin entry and spin recovery techniques but do not require the pilot to have performed these maneuvers in an aircraft.