December 10, 2011, Armistead, Calif., Vans RV-8 Experimental

The airplane was substantially damaged at about 1316 Pacific time when it impacted terrain while maneuvering. The solo commercial pilot sustained fatal injuries. Visual conditions prevailed. Multiple witnesses observed the accident airplane flying northbound over their position at about 130 feet agl. The witnesses observed the airplane initiate a right turn to the east before performing several barrel rolls. The airplane turned west and performed a loop. Subsequently, the airplane impacted terrain during the maneuver.

Editorial Staff

Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A solo commercial pilot was fatally injured when their airplane impacted terrain during a series of aerial maneuvers.
Witnesses observed the low-flying aircraft perform several barrel rolls and a loop before the accident.
The engine appeared to be developing power at the time of the impact, according to witness reports.

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The airplane was substantially damaged at about 1316 Pacific time when it impacted terrain while maneuvering. The solo commercial pilot sustained fatal injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.

Multiple witnesses observed the accident airplane flying northbound over their position at about 130 feet agl. The witnesses observed the airplane initiate a right turn to the east before performing several barrel rolls. The airplane turned west and performed a loop. Subsequently, the airplane impacted terrain during the maneuver. Witnesses further reported that the engine seemed to be developing power at the time of the accident.