Primary finding
Probable cause
A loss of control due to pilot incapacitation.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Radar data showed the airplane in a climb to 7800 ft, level at 7700 ft for approx 1 minute, and then enter a descent. The radar data was put into a computer program which showed that the highest vertical speed recorded was 19,000 fpm, with a tas of 279.9 kts (321.9 mph). Evidence of flutter was found on the elevator, which separated from the horizontal stabilizers, and the wings had failed symmetrically in negative loading. The pilot had been taking vasotec for hypertension. Data supplied from flight testing found that if the airplane was trimmed for a climb at 112 mph, and the power was not changed, a 13 pound forward force on the control wheel would cause the airplane to accelerate to 196 mph. The never exceed speed for the airplane is 200 mph.
Source record
Factual narrative
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