Flight Maneuvers
The solo instructional flight departed the airport northbound and climbed to 1,500 feet above ground level. Radar data indicates that the student pilot flew by her home, and the airplane slowed from about 95 knots to 47 knots ground speed, with an estimated headwind of 6 to 8 knots. The airplane's stall speed was 48 knots. The airplane then accelerated back to approximately 95 knots and turned southeast bound.
Second Pass and Descent
As the pilot passed her home a second time, she again slowed the airplane to 47 knots ground speed, this time with an estimated tailwind of 2 to 6 knots. Radar data shows the airplane then turned left and began descending at about 4,500 feet per minute.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported seeing the airplane flying eastbound with wings level, descending to between 75 and 150 feet above ground level. One witness stated he did not remember hearing any engine noise initially. He then saw the left wing dip very rapidly, and the airplane became almost vertical. At the same time, he heard the engine power up.
Toxicological Findings
Toxicological reports indicate that the student pilot had four times the maximum recommended concentration of the drug sertraline (trade name Zoloft) in her system. Zoloft is a prescription antidepressant and is not approved by the Federal Aviation Administration for pilots to take while on flight status.