What happened
On August 13, 2011, at approximately 11:30 CDT, two experimental-amateur built Vans aircraft collided approximately 15 miles north of Lone Star Executive Airport (CXO) near Conlag, Texas. The aircraft involved were a Stevens/McCright Vans RV-6, registration N16DD, and a Douglas Knab Vans RV-8, registration N189DK.
The two aircraft were part of a seven-plane group known as Freedom Flight, consisting of professional aviators practicing formation maneuvers for an upcoming event. During the flight, the lead pilot instructed the aircraft to enter specific fingertip and diamond formations. The pilot of the N189DK was instructed to move into a slot position, while other aircraft were directed to move into trail positions.
As the formation transitioned, the pilot of the N16DD moved directly behind the N189DK. A third pilot, who was also moving into a trail position, observed the N16DD drift beneath the N189DK and then climb into it. The collision caused a large explosion and fire in the engine compartment of the N189DK. The pilot of the N189DK experienced engine failure and fire entering the cockpit, resulting in minor injuries to his arm and stomach, but he successfully performed a forced landing in a field.
The N16DD entered a 60-degree nose-down descent and impacted wooded terrain, where a post-impact fire occurred. The pilot of the N16DD sustained 1 fatal injury.
The investigation
FAA inspectors examined both accident sites, located approximately 0.3 miles apart. Examination of the N189DK revealed propeller blade scarring at the tips, red paint transfer from the N16DD, and impact marks on the engine cowling, the right elevator, and the leading edge of the right wing. Both main landing gears were spread, with the right gear showing dark red paint transfer.
An autopsy of the pilot of the N16DD determined the cause of death was multiple blunt injuries from the crash and subsequent fire. While an initial report indicated a 4% carbon monoxide reading, subsequent testing by the FAA Toxicology Accident Research laboratory was negative for all tested substances, including carbon monoxide.
Findings
- The pilot of the N16DD moved into a position directly behind the N189DK rather than the assigned trailing position.
- The pilot of the N16DD drifted beneath the N189DK and climbed into the aircraft.
- There was no evidence of medical impairment or incapacitation of the pilot of the N16DD found during toxicological testing.