On June 29, 1999, a Boeing Stearman A75 (registration N801RB) was involved in an aviation accident near Carpenter, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot incapacitation for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot was fatally injured when their aircraft, part of a four-plane flight, entered a descending right turn and struck the ground during a cross-country positioning flight. Investigation found no evidence of mechanical failure.
Incident Overview
While conducting a cross-country positioning flight, a flight of four aircraft was in cruise flight when the number four airplane entered a descending right-hand turn and flew into the ground in an open field. The pilot of that aircraft sustained fatal injuries.
Communications and Circumstances
Other pilots in the flight had been in radio communication with the accident pilot within two minutes prior to the event. No further details regarding the content of those communications were provided.
Investigation Findings
An investigation into the accident found no evidence of aircraft failures or malfunctions. A review of the pilot's medical history and autopsy findings provided no evidence of medical significance except for the presence of coronary artery disease. The investigation did not determine a specific cause for the loss of control.