Accident Details
A twin-engine aircraft crashed while on approach to Helendale Airport. The accident occurred when the aircraft's airspeed became too low. As a result, the left wing dropped, and the airplane dove into the ground. The impact caused a fire, and the aircraft was consumed. Both occupants were killed. The crash and fire destroyed the aircraft.
The flight was conducting a test of an electrical chute device, having departed from Van Nuys Airport. The purpose of the flight was to perform a drop test of the device. The aircraft was on approach to Helendale Airport at the time of the accident.
Investigation
The official accident investigation determined the probable cause to be the pilot-in-command's failure to maintain flying speed. Additionally, the investigation reported a factor: the pilot's lack of familiarity with the aircraft.