At 12:46 EDT, a Beech T-34A operating as part of a commercial combat dogfighting simulation lost a wing and crashed, killing the pilot and customer. The operator reported that the accident airplane and another T-34 entered the training area near Rydall to complete the pre-briefed simulation mission as outlined in phase two of the four-phase combat simulation program. Approximately 45 minutes into the mission, both airplanes set up a beyond visual range engagement. Both airplanes initiated the engagement at a predetermined altitude and direction. After the initial turn toward each other, the accident airplane started a descending turn, followed by a rapid reversal. The pilot of the second T-34 said that the right wing separated during the reversal. The aircraft was equipped with three cameras and a video recorder; the tape was recovered for examination.
Apr. 19, Rydall, Ga. / Beech T-34A Mentor
At 12:46 EDT, a Beech T-34A operating as part of a commercial combat dogfighting simulation lost a wing and crashed, killing the pilot and customer. The operator reported that the accident airplane and another T-34 entered the training area near Rydall to complete the pre-briefed simulation mission as outlined in phase two of the four-phase combat simulation program. Approximately 45 minutes into the mission, both airplanes set up a beyond visual range engagement. Both airplanes initiated the engagement at a predetermined altitude and direction. After the initial turn toward each other, the accident airplane started a descending turn, followed by a rapid reversal. The pilot of the second T...
Key Takeaways:
- A Beech T-34A participating in a commercial combat dogfighting simulation crashed, resulting in the deaths of the pilot and a customer.
- The accident occurred approximately 45 minutes into the mission when the aircraft's right wing separated during a rapid reversal maneuver.
- Video footage from three onboard cameras was recovered and is being examined as part of the investigation.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
