What happened
During the Canadian Aviation Expo at Oshawa Airport, a Progressive Aerodyne SeaRey (registration C-GCWR) was performing a planned two-plane formation demonstration. Due to radio issues in the lead aircraft, C-GCWR took a wingman position behind a second SeaRey.
Following takeoff, the aircraft began a series of maneuvers. During the flight, the aircraft's climb rate fluctuated, indicating intermittent engine performance. The pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft, but the plane entered a descending turn toward a residential construction area. The aircraft struck a mound of earth and a concrete sewer casement, causing a massive deceleration. The pilot sustained one fatality.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system and engine performance. They found several discrepancies in the fuel system, including an incorrectly installed in-line fuel filter, uncapped primer ports, and a loose fitting on the gascolator. These issues were capable of allowing air into the fuel line, leading to inconsistent fuel flow.
Analysis of GPS data showed the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 322 feet before the final descent. While some initial observations suggested a stall or spin, investigators determined the airspeed remained above the stall speed. However, they found that the aircraft's flaps were in the up position at impact. The design of the control stick switches made them susceptible to accidental movement, and it is believed the pilot inadvertently raised the flaps while maneuvering.
Findings
- Discrepancies in the fuel system likely allowed air to enter the fuel line, causing a partial loss of engine power.
- The pilot likely inadvertently raised the flaps while attempting to return to the airport, which increased the stall speed and the rate of descent.
- The aircraft struck a concrete sewer casette, causing extreme deceleration that caused the seat and shoulder belt attachment to fail, leading to the fatal impact with the instrument panel.