Amateur-built Starduster SA300 N480DM accident near Zillah, Washington

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control during a low-altitude maneuver.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he was conducting a low-level, high-speed, pass over a remote control airplane airstrip. He stated that during the pass he pulled up and rolled the airplane. About halfway through the roll he lost sight of the horizon and stated that he "knew I was in trouble." The airplane impacted the ground shortly thereafter. Spectators at the airstrip reported that the pilot flew from southeast to northwest, and performed a fly-by approximately 20 to 30 feet above ground level. At the end of the airstrip, the airplane increased in altitude to about 100 feet and then entered a roll. No mechanical malfunctions were noted with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10LA069 for the full record.