What happened
On September 26, 2003, a Reims F172N (registration PH-TWB) was engaged in a check flight at Lelystad Airport. The flight was intended to certify a prospective renter, who was being evaluated by the aircraft owner. After performing several standard landings, the crew attempted a specialized low-altitude, low-speed maneuver designed to fly just above the stall speed.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot was instructed to manage power settings to maintain flight stability at a precarious speed. During this maneuver, the pilot experienced significant discomfort due to the unfamiliarity of the technique. When the owner instructed the pilot to reduce power, the pilot instead applied full power and pulled back on the control column. This error caused the aircraft to enter a sharp left turn at a low altitude, perpendicular to the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the interaction between the crew and the execution of the maneuver. While the owner was not acting as a formal instructor, the investigation examined the effectiveness of the coaching provided. It was noted that the pilot lacked recent experience on this specific aircraft type. The investigation also looked into the physical struggle for control between the two occupants during the final moments of the flight.
Findings
- The pilot's incorrect power application and simultaneous aft control input directly caused the loss of control.
- The owner attempted to intervene by pushing the control column forward and reaching for the throttle, but the pilot held the controls so firmly that effective correction was impossible.
- The owner lacked the specific instructional experience or coaching skills necessary to recognize the pilot's growing unease or to demonstrate the maneuver effectively.
- The aircraft struck the ground with the nose wheel, followed by the propeller and engine cowling hitting the grass. The right wingtip subsequently impacted the ground, causing the aircraft to capsize and come to rest upside down.
- Both occupants remained uninjured following the accident.