What happened
During the final approach phase, an aircraft was observed flying at a low altitude in a tight circular pattern over residential areas. Witnesses near the Highland County Airport noted the aircraft attempted a left-hand turn to head west toward the airfield but appeared to struggle with stabilization. One observer reported hearing a loud noise and seeing the plane flying just above the tree line with its landing gear extended, noting that the aircraft was oscillating vertically.
Another witness described the plane wobbling laterally before it descended into a wooded area. The impact involved striking several vehicles before the aircraft came to a stop against a tree. A fire broke out following the collision, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. A person familiar with the pilot's previous flight habits noted a tendency to execute steep turns from the downwind to the base and final legs, as well as inconsistent airspeed management during approaches.
Findings
- The aircraft exhibited unstable flight characteristics, including vertical and lateral oscillations.
- An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of engine or structural failure occurring prior to the impact.