Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command's exceeding of the design limitations of the airplane.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While doing acrobatic flight the pilot heard a noise and landed. Examination of the airplane revealed 2 failed longerons. The pilot stated he had heard a similar noise about 3 weeks earlier.
Source record
Factual narrative
On May 26, 1994, about 1330 eastern daylight time, N61PS, Pitts S2B, registered to the pilot David J. Swartz experienced a structural failure in flight near Keystone Heights, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 acrobatic flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The airplane was substantially damaged and the pilot reported no injuries. The flight had originated from Keystone Heights Airport about 45 minutes earlier. The pilot stated that while performing acrobatic maneuvers he heard a loud noise. After landing, the airplane was inspected and a structural longeron was found broken in two places. The pilot stated he had heard a similar noise about 3 weeks earlier. -