Accident Overview
A training flight that departed from Atlanta ended in a crash near Red Hill after the airplane unexpectedly pitched up and entered a spin while in normal cruise. The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be an engine failure or malfunction resulting from a failure of the fuel injection system. Several contributing factors were identified:
- A miscellaneous act or condition involving a loose part or fitting.
- Improper operation of the flight controls by the student pilot.
- Failure to maintain flying speed.
- Inadequate supervision of the flight by the pilot-in-command.
- Reports of a rough or surging engine heard before the crash.
- The aircraft was not equipped with a flight Bob-WT system.
Sequence of Events
According to the investigation, the crew departed Atlanta for a local training mission. During the en route phase, while operating at normal cruise, the airplane was observed to pitch up. This pitch-up maneuver led directly to the aircraft entering a spin. The subsequent impact occurred near Red Hill.
Investigation Details
The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location details beyond Red Hill, number of occupants (except that both were killed), or time of day. No mention was made of weather conditions or air traffic control involvement.