History of Flight
On May 25, 2009, approximately 1330 central daylight time, a North Wing Design Apache Sport, an experimental weight-shift control aircraft (registration N600GB), was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain following a loss of control near Fredericksburg, Texas. The pilot and passenger both received fatal injuries. The aircraft was registered to and operated by a private individual. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan was not filed for the personal flight conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the aircraft on site and reported that it impacted the ground in a steep nose-down attitude. The wreckage and ground scars were consistent with the aircraft spinning at the time of impact. Witnesses stated they heard the aircraft either flutter or sputter before impact.
Personnel Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine land rating. The pilot's personal flight record logbook was not provided for examination, and flying endorsements were not ascertained. According to FAA records, the pilot's most recent aviation medical certificate, a third-class, was issued May 14, 2009. The pilot was required to have available glasses for near vision. The pilot-rated passenger held a private pilot certificate with airplane single- and multi-engine land ratings.
Aircraft Information
The Apache Sport B was certified as an Experimental, Special Light Sport Aircraft in the weight-shift control category. The two-place trike design is equipped with a pusher propeller, tricycle landing gear, and wing struts. The aircraft was powered by a Rotax 582 reciprocating engine. The owner reportedly kept the aircraft in a trailer and assembled it prior to flying. A review of FAA records indicated that the pilot purchased the airplane in October 2008.
Meteorological Information
The automated weather reporting station at Gillespie County Airport, Fredericksburg, Texas, reported at 1325: calm wind, visibility 10 statute miles, scattered clouds at 4,900 feet, temperature 82°F, dew point 61°F, and altimeter setting of 29.87 inches of mercury.
Communications
There were no reported radio communications with the accident pilot.
Wreckage and Impact Information
An FAA inspector examined the airplane on scene. The airplane was found in a relatively open field with scattered trees. There was no evidence of fire. Terrain and aircraft damage were consistent with the airplane impacting terrain in a nose-low attitude. All structural airframe and engine components were found with the wreckage; however, an orange-colored fabric wing piece was located about a quarter mile from the main wreckage. The fuel tank had been breached by impact, but a fuel odor was present at the site.
The inspector also reported that a wire support cable was found disconnected at the accident site; however, no determination could be made regarding whether the cable was disconnected prior to impact.
Medical and Pathological Information
The Office of the Medical Examiner for Travis County, Austin, Texas, performed an autopsy on the pilot on May 26, 2009. The cause of death was listed as multiple blunt force injuries. Toxicological testing on the pilot was performed by the FAA's Civil Aeromedical Institute (CAMI) Forensic and Accident Research Center.