Amateur-built TITAN TORNADO II N158TX accident near Checotah, Oklahoma

Probable cause

The noncertificated pilot's loss of airplane control while maneuvering during initial climb, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and impact with terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s ostentatious display.

NTSB analysis

After takeoff, the airplane leveled off about 100 ft above ground level; accelerated; made a steep, nearly vertical, nose-up climb; and then sharply banked left. The airplane then suddenly stalled and "nose-dived" into the ground. A witness reported that, in the past, he and his neighbors had frequently seen the pilot perform this type of maneuver. One person reported that, in the past, the pilot seemed to enjoy "showing off" for people when he was flying.

Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures. Federal Aviation Administration records showed that the pilot did not hold a valid pilot certificate and that his previously issued student pilot certificate had expired in 2003. Toxicological testing detected low levels of methamphetamine in the pilot's cavity blood and urine, indicating that the pilot took some form of the drug before the crash. However, insufficient evidence was available to determine whether the drug had been medically prescribed or was being used recreationally. Thus, it could not be determined if the pilot's performance was impaired by either the drug, an underlying medical condition, or withdrawal symptoms at the time of the flight.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA307 for the full record.