Loss of Control in Flight · NTSB CEN10FA493

CESSNA 310C — Calhan, CO

2 fatal High-time pilotLow altitude
DateAugust 23, 2010
LocationCalhan, CO
AircraftCESSNA 310C
Purpose of flightInstructional
ConditionsDay · Visual Meteorological Cond
Phase / occurrenceManeuvering Loss of control in flight
Pilot age76
Pilot total time3,425 hrs · High time
Time in typeUnknown
Fatalities2

Probable cause

The pilots'failure to maintain control of the airplane which resulted in an inadvertent stall and spin.

NTSB findings

  • Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Aircraft control-Pilot - C

What happened

Friends and family members reported that the two pilots departed with the objective of completing a flight review for the commercial pilot. According to radar data, the airplane was maneuvering in the practice area, when the airplane was lost on radar. The airplane impacted open terrain in a wings level attitude consistent with a flat spin. An examination of the airplane, its related systems, and both engines revealed no anomalies. The commercial pilot and certified flight instructor (CFI) were both experienced in the airplane. Medical and pathological examination of the commercial pilot and CFI revealed no medical or toxicological issues that would have precluded either the commercial pilot or the CFI from operating the airplane in a safe manner prior to the accident.

An editorial "what led to it / how to avoid it" analysis for this accident is generated separately and will appear here.

View the official NTSB docket →