What happened
On June 12, 2022, at approximately 08:45 UTC, a Tecnam P2002 Sierra MK II, registration OK-YUU-83, was performing a demonstration flight near Komoča, Slovakia. The flight, operated by F AIR, s.r.o., involved the pilot in command (PIC) and a client/passenger. Following an agreement where the client would handle the controls, the aircraft was subjected to several high-load maneuvers.
After performing sharp turns, the aircraft entered a steep climb that resulted in a significant loss of airspeed. This led to a wing drop and a transition into a right-hand spin. Despite recovery attempts, the aircraft could not be leveled at such a low altitude and subsequently impacted a cornfield approximately 4.3 km east of Komo and was destroyed. The crew sustained serious injuries; while the pilot survived with serious injuries, the client sustained fatal injuries at the scene.
The investigation
The investigation examined flight data from the GDU460 displays, radar records from Slovak Air Traffic Services, and the aircraft's technical documentation. Investigators reviewed the pilot's qualifications, the aircraft's weight and balance, and the maintenance history. The investigation also analyzed the physical wreckage and the medical findings regarding the occupants.
Findings
- The crew performed maneuvers that exceeded the aircraft's flight envelope and were prohibited by the manufacturer's flight manual.
- The pilot in command allowed the client to execute unauthorized maneuvers without sufficient oversight or intervention.
- The aircraft's center of gravity was near the rear limit, which negatively impacted stability during aggressive maneuvering.
- The client did not adjust their control inputs to match their lack of experience with this specific aircraft type.
- The engine and all mechanical systems were fully functional up until the moment of impact.
- The loss of airspeed during a steep climb caused an unintentional stall and subsequent spin.