CHI95DCQ01

Purpose of the flight was to practice aerobatic maneuvers. Witnesses stated the airplane entered a 'flat spin' from which the pilot did not recover. The engine was running at time of impact. The airplane impacted the terrain and a fire ensued.

History of Flight

On April 1, 1995, at 1230 central standard time (CST), a Pitts S-2B, N876CB, operated as a personal aircraft by an instrument rated commercial pilot impacted level terrain 1/2 mile east of Ottawa Municipal Airport (OWI), Ottawa, Kansas, and was destroyed. A post-crash fire occurred. The commercial certificated pilot sustained fatal injuries. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident, no flight plan was filed. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91, and had originated from OWI at 1220 cst.

The purpose of the flight was an aerobatic practice session. Witnesses stated the airplane climbed to an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet, leveled off, and entered a "flat-spin" maneuver, one mile east of the airport. The airplane remained in the spin until ground impact.

Personal Information

The 57 year old pilot held a commercial pilot certificate number 488386430, with privileges for single engine land, instrument, and multi-engine and glider tow rating limited to private pilot privileges. In addition he held flight instructor rating with single engine land and instrument airplane privileges.

The pilot's last medical examination was accomplished on October 25, 1994, at which time he was issued a Second Class medical certificate with limitations for near vision.

The pilot has a total of 5851.0 flight hours at the time of the accident. His most recent biennial flight review was completed on June 13, 1994, in a T-34B.

Airplane Information

The airplane was a Pitts Aerobatic, S-2B, N876CB, manufactured in 1984, with serial number 5033. The airplane had accumulated 561.2 total hours at the last annual inspection on February 3, 1995. The last entry in the engine log was dated March 13, 1995, at which time eight new engine mount rubbers were installed.

Meteorological Conditions

Olathe, Kansas (IXD) reported that visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident, this is consistent with the observations of witnesses near the accident site.

Wreckage and Impact Information

The airplane came to rest approximately one mile directly east of the Ottowa Airport, in an open field. Inspection of the airframe failed to reveal any pre-existing anomalies. Engine and flight control continuity could not be established due to the post impact fire. The integrity of the engine was confirmed. All airplane components were located at the point of impact with no scatter pattern being noted.

Medical and Pathological Information

An autopsy was not performed and toxicological samples were not taken.

Fire

Most of the cockpit was consumed by the post-impact fire. The exact ignition source is unknown. Much of the fuel system was consumed by fire.