Amateur-built RV-7 N747BA accident near Seabeck, Washington

Probable cause

A loss of airplane control for reasons that could not be determined because the airplane impacted water, and the majority of the wreckage was not recovered.

NTSB analysis

A witness located near the accident site reported observing an airplane "spinning out of control" as it descended toward the water and breaking apart as it descended out of sight behind a stand of trees. Some wreckage debris consistent with the accident airplane was found floating on the water's surface; however, the majority of the wreckage was not located. Review of recorded radar data showed the airplane departing and then climbing to cruise altitude. The data then showed the airplane descend and climb twice. The last recorded radar target was located at 7,000 ft about 1 mile southwest of the recovered debris. The reason for the loss of control could not be determined because of the limited amount of wreckage that was recovered.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15LA092 for the full record.