Gaynor Donald J RV6A N88WG

Summary

On 4 April 2009 at about 18:35 local time, a Gaynor Donald J RV6A registered N88WG, operated by Donald J. Gaynor, was involved in an accident near Englewood, Florida, United States. 2 people were on board and one died, one was seriously injured. The aircraft was substantially damaged. The NTSB has published a probable cause for this accident; it is quoted in full below.

Date

4 April 2009 at 18:35

Classification

Accident

Location

Englewood, Florida, United States

Coordinates

26.9661, -82.3531

Aircraft

Gaynor Donald J RV6A

Registration

N88WG

Category

Airplane

Engines

1

Operator

Donald J. Gaynor

Operating rule

Part 91: General Aviation

Purpose of flight

Personal

Phase of flight

Not recorded

Route

Venice Municipa → Venice Municipa

Aircraft damage

Substantial

Weather

VMC

Light

Dawn

NTSB number

ERA09LA229

1 person died.

The pilot's operation of the airplane while impaired (alcohol) and his decision to attempt aerobatic maneuvers at a low altitude resulting in the loss of aircraft control and subsequent collision with trees.

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record. This site does not paraphrase or interpret it.

Read the full NTSB narrative

According to the passenger, he and the pilot were returning to the airport after a local flight, when he heard a loud snap or a loud bang. The airplane began to buffet, the pilot moved the control stick forward and aft, and the airplane subsequently impacted trees. Witnesses on the ground observed the airplane flying overhead at an altitude of 300 feet. They reported the airplane was performing aerobatic maneuvers described as a "barrel roll" or a "loop." A postaccident examination of the airframe, engine and system components revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation. Post-mortem toxicology testing identified ethanol in the pilot's blood, vitreous, and urine, at impairing levels. The pilot had multiple convictions of driving under the influence (DUI), and the FAA had twice revoked the pilot's medical certificate for alcohol related offenses.

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record.