What happened
While approaching runway 9, the pilot was directed by air traffic control to execute an "S" turn at a distance of 3 miles from the runway. The pilot began the maneuver by turning to the left. After the aircraft had turned back toward the right to complete the second half of the sequence, the tower controller informed the pilot that the maneuver could be aborted and that the aircraft could proceed directly to the final approach.
At a ground speed of 89 knots, the pilot performed a sudden, steep bank to the left. According to eyewitness accounts, the aircraft rolled onto its back and descended vertically. The accident resulted in fatalities.
Findings
Investigations involving flight simulation demonstrated that performing a steep turn without increasing engine power leads to a rapid loss of airspeed as the bank angle increases, eventually resulting in an aerodynamic stall.
Additionally, toxicology results showed the presence of tramadol, a prescription painkiller, in the pilot's system. The pilot had not disclosed the use of this medication during his medical certification process roughly 20 months before the event. While the presence of the medication was noted, the specific impact of the drug or the underlying medical condition on the flight's outcome remains undetermined.