Accident Summary
On an unspecified date, an uncertificated Hispano Aviacion model HA200 Saeta, a Spanish military jet airplane manufactured in 1962 with serial number E-14A-13, crashed after a flight intended to test brake repairs. The pilot, who was also an FAA licensed mechanic, had not been granted a Special Airworthiness certificate due to outstanding FAA requirements. A witness stated that the airplane had been operating normally except for the brakes, and the pilot intended to taxi down the runway, apply the brakes to verify their function, and if normal, to take off, stay in the traffic pattern, and land.
Witness Accounts
One witness observed the takeoff to the north and saw the airplane in the traffic pattern. Instead of landing, the airplane continued south, away from the airport. Another witness, living near the airport, reported seeing the airplane pass low over trees, noting that the engine did not sound as if it was operating efficiently. He saw the airplane make a sharp left turn very low over the trees and descend. Recognizing the airplane was in trouble, he called 911 and then drove to the scene, where he observed two large trees burning, the airplane engulfed in flames, and the ground covered in fuel.
According to an FAA inspector, a third witness reported hearing the airplane flying southbound with an engine that did not sound as if it was operating properly. This witness noted that the engine seemed not to be generating power and observed the airplane in a 20 to 30 degree nose-high attitude near a large open field. He saw the landing gear extend and then retract, followed by the airplane entering approximately a 90-degree "knife edged" turn to the left, as if attempting to return to the airport, before descending and impacting the ground at a steep angle. The wreckage was engulfed in flames.
Investigation
An FAA inspector who responded to the accident stated that the damage precluded any determination of whether there had been a mechanical failure or malfunction. The inspector also confirmed that the pilot had not been granted a Special Airworthiness certificate.
Pilot Information
The pilot had accumulated approximately 3,400 total flight hours, of which about 12 hours were in the accident airplane.