Incident Overview
On November 20, 2010, at approximately 2000 eastern standard time, a Cessna 172N (registration N882AV) experienced an in-flight upset of undetermined origin while maneuvering near Bluffton, South Carolina. The aircraft was owned by MDS Enterprises LLC and was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan had been filed.
Flight Details
The flight departed from Hilton Head Airport in Hilton Head, South Carolina, at 1945, with the intended destination of Lowcountry Regional Airport in Walterboro, South Carolina. The pilot reported cruising at 2,000 feet mean sea level while paralleling a river when a sudden, violent impact or upset occurred. The pilot initially thought that something had struck the rudder. Subsequently, the airplane became unstable and began to rock from side to side.
Forced Landing and Outcome
Faced with the deteriorating control of the aircraft, the pilot elected to execute a forced landing in the river. The pilot sustained minor injuries during the landing. The airplane sustained damage that is assumed to be substantial, as the insurance company representing the registered owner determined that it was not cost-effective to attempt to locate or recover the wreckage.
Investigation
The origin of the in-flight upset has not been determined. No further analysis or conclusions have been provided by the investigating authority.