Aviat Inc PITTS S-2B N46BT accident near Redlands, California

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airspeed while maneuvering, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s impairment from alcohol.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane stalled while maneuvering at a low altitude. He attempted to recover from the stall; however, the airplane continued to descend and subsequently collided with terrain. First responders to the accident site reported that they noted an odor of alcohol when they spoke to the pilot at the accident site. About one hour after the accident, a blood sample from the pilot was secured and later tested for alcohol intoxicants. The test results showed that the pilot’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was .04 percent. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, effects of a BAC of .04 percent can include decreased attention, impaired judgment, and increased reaction time. The pilot later reported that he had consumed alcohol prior to the accident flight. The pilot also reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR11LA458 for the full record.