What happened
On July 2, 1995, a JAK-52, registration LY-AIT, crashed at the Alytus Aeroclub aerodrome in Lithuania during an aerobatic flight. The aircraft took off at 10:10 local time for the purpose of performing basic aerobatic maneuvers. Approximately eight minutes into the flight, while performing complex maneuvers, the aircraft entered a deep flat spin.
The crew attempted to recover from the spin using elevator input; however, the ailerons were deflected against the direction of the rotation, and the rudder remained in a neutral position. The aircraft completed 14 rotations within the spin. As the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 50-60 meters, the pilot transitioned into a dive, impacting the ground at an angle of approximately 80 degrees. Both pilots on board were killed in the accident.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight maneuvers, the qualifications of the crew, and the organizational structure of the Alytus Aeroclub. Investigators reviewed video footage of the flight, which captured three complex aerobatic figures: a loop with a 1/4 stall at the bottom, a loop with a 45-degree upward stall, and a flat spin.
The authority also scrutinized the club's operational procedures, noting that the aircraft was being operated from the instructor's seat by a pilot lacking the necessary qualifications and legal authorization for such maneuvers. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the technical preparation of the aircraft and the oversight provided by the flight controller.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the unauthorized operation of the aircraft from the second cockpit by a pilot who lacked the required skills, qualifications, and legal authority to perform such maneuvers, rendering him unable to recover the aircraft once it entered a complex state.
- The flight was performed with inadequate organizational oversight at the Alytus Aeroclub.
- The pilot in the instructor's seat did not possess instructor qualifications or sufficient practice for such flights.
- The flight controller lacked aerobatic flight experience and was unable to provide qualified radio advice during the emergency.
- Critical flight monitoring equipment, specifically the barograph/baropsidograph, was not operational or prepared for use, making it impossible to determine precise altitude and speed at the moment of the spin entry.
- There were significant organizational failures within the aeroclub, including a lack of clearly defined responsibility for flight organization and training oversight.
Safety action
- All flights at the Alytus Aeroclub were to be suspended until the legal and regulatory framework for flight organization was corrected and responsible personnel were appointed.
- Recommendations were made to improve the appointment process for aeroclub heads to ensure clear legal accountability for state-owned assets and operational safety.