U-FITAQP: 12) LOSS OF SPEED AWARENESS
THE DTSB
The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be Pilot Error, in that the pilot climbed and turned left immediately after takeoff, somehow allowing speed to decay well below DMMS, and or flight in exceedance of the critical angle of attack. The aircraft stalled and spun to the left with not enough altitude to effect a standard stall or spin recovery. The pilots last FAA medical certificate was issued in 2002, therefore in flight medical incapacitation is also possible.
NTSB
None yet (final report not yet published).
THE DTSB
The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft become educated regarding DMMS, and that they placard and honor DMMS at all times unless on final where speed may be reduced to Vref as a minimum. DMMS is the same as Vy, and Vg for most all GA aircraft. The DTSB recommends that this simple reference be installed and honored at all times, especially during climb after takeoff.
NTSB
None issued. NTSB recommendations are rare and usually tied to high-profile accidents.
See the NTSB Recommendation Tracker →