What happened
On 20 March 2016, a Laser Z200, registration PH-LSR, was involved in a fatal accident near Abbeyshrule, Co. Longford. The pilot, who had recently taken delivery of the aircraft just one week prior, was performing a series of circuits and aerobatic maneuvers at Abbeyshrule Airfield. The flight included several touch-and-go landings and various maneuvers such as aileron rolls and inverted flight.
During the eighth circuit, while flying on the downwind leg at an altitude of approximately 800 ft, the pilot attempted a sequence of aileron rolls. Following the second roll, the aircraft entered a steep, nose-down, inverted attitude. In an attempt to recover, the pilot initiated a 'Split S' maneuver, but the aircraft instead entered the initial stage of a spin. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground in an agricultural field, resulting in one fatality and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The AAIU examined wreckage, GoPro video footage from cameras mounted on the aircraft, and eyewitness accounts. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's engine, propeller, and flight controls were fully functional prior to impact, and there was no evidence of fuel starvation or excessive G-loading.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's licensing and training history. While the pilot held a valid license, there was no record of specific instruction or training for the Laser Z200 or aircraft of similar performance. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was categorized as an 'Annex II' aircraft, which exempted the pilot from certain EASA aerobatic rating requirements.
Findings
- The pilot was performing aerobatic maneuvers at an altitude that did not provide a sufficient safety margin.
- The aircraft was in a nose-down, inverted attitude following an aileron roll, which led to the entry into a spin.
- The pilot lacked experience specifically with the Laser Z200 and its high-performance capabilities.
- The use of the 'Split S' maneuver was an unsuitable recovery technique given the low altitude.
- The pilot may have been influenced by the presence of onlookers on the ground when deciding to perform maneuvers at circuit height.
Safety action
- The investigation issued a safety recommendation to the Director General of Mobility and Transport to consult with EASA regarding the establishment of minimum aerobatic training requirements for pilots operating 'Annex II' aircraft.