What happened
A training mission originated from Atlanta, with the crew performing a routine flight profile. During the cruise phase of the operation, the aircraft experienced an unexpected pitch-up motion which subsequently led to the plane entering a spin. The descent concluded in a crash in the vicinity of Red Hill.
This accident resulted in two fatalities, as both pilots on board were killed during the impact.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified that an engine malfunction or failure occurred, which was linked to a breakdown within the fuel injection system. During the flight, the crew reportedly heard the engine surging and running roughly. Several contributing factors were noted in the official report:
- The presence of loose parts or fittings within the aircraft
- Ineffective management of airspeed by the student pilot
- Improper use of flight controls by the student pilot
- Insufficient oversight of the flight operations by the pilot-in-command
- The absence of a Bob-WT flight system on the aircraft