Tower Controller and M-20J pilot described an emergency return to the airport resulting from an apparent disorientation issue with the pilot of an IFR general aviation aircraft.
Synopsis
Tower Controller and M-20J pilot described an emergency return to the airport resulting from an apparent disorientation issue with the pilot of an IFR general aviation aircraft.
Narrative
M20P departed Runway 35 with an on course heading of 335. A SR22 departed Runway 17 on heading 020. After being switched to departure; the M20P started to turn back into the departure corridor and the TRACON Controller stated that he was turning back northwest bound. At that point I turned the SR22 to a 090 heading to ensure separation. The M20P continued to fly erratically and I turned the SR22 to a 120 heading to further ensure separation then switched him to Departure. At that time the low altitude alert began to alarm and I started to visually search for the aircraft. I observed him descending out of the clouds in a steep right turn. At that time using the override line I heard the pilot state that he having problems; needed help and wanted to get down. He was then switched to Tower. When asked to say intentions the pilot stated that he needed to get down; I then cleared him to land on any runway. I then proceeded to clear multiple vehicles off of Runway safety areas. I then saw the M20P on final and cleared him to land. He then landed and rolled out with no incident. This emergency situation was due to pilot disorientation.
Second reporter narrative
Entered IMC at 2;500' off Runway 35. The course was 330; climbing at 400'/min; with an airspeed of 84 knots; 30 knot wind from 030. At 4;000' noted controls becoming mushy; air speed dropping to mid 70 knots; climb rate falling to 100'/min. ATC asked my course; which had become 030. I had responded earlier with moderate pressure on the left rudder; and hoping that the wind might help correct. ATC asked if I was in trouble; I replied NO; I didn't think so (should have responded that I was having trouble maintaining airspeed and course; and that I had had no response from left rudder; did not have time to note wind direction). Gear; flaps were up; pitot heat was on; power settings were on take off. Did not have time to do any more problem solving. I was trying to comply. I was not dizzy; confused; but was perplexed. I was concerned about a stall with the air speed approaching stall speed and the controls becoming mushier. ATC asked again to correct as I was 050. Pushed hard to the left with rudder and aileron and went into a stall spin. At 2;000' able to get control and received permission from Tower to land on 14. To avoid having this happen again; would not fly in IMC. Next; would seek and receive re-certification in IFR training.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.