Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control, while practicing aerobatics.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was practicing an aerobatic routine for an upcoming airshow. The airplane was at an altitude of 3,500 feet, when the pilot performed a loop, with a snap roll. The airplane subsequently entered a diving left spin. The pilot was unable to recover from the spin, and as the airplane descended through 1,750 feet, he released the canopy and parachuted from the airplane successfully. The airplane impacted the ground and was destroyed. The pilot stated he had practiced the maneuver on previous occasions without incident. He did not report any mechanical malfunctions of the airplane or flight controls.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of an amateur built Bateleleur 2000, was practicing an aerobatic routine for an upcoming airshow. The airplane was at an altitude of 3,500 feet, when the pilot performed a loop, with a snap roll. The airplane subsequently entered a diving left spin. The pilot was unable to recover from the spin, and as the airplane descended through 1,750 feet, he released the canopy and parachuted from the airplane successfully. The airplane impacted the ground and was destroyed. The pilot stated he had practiced the maneuver on previous occasions without incident. He did not report any mechanical malfunctions of the airplane or flight controls.