The Phantom X1 pilot flew a visual traffic pattern to a grass runway near Three Rivers, Mich., utilized by a combination of light-sport aircraft, powered parachutes, and radio-controlled aircraft.
While on downwind at 400 feet above ground level, he noticed three ground vehicles parked in a lot often used by pilots when they flew radio-controlled aircraft.
As he searched for possible radio-controlled aircraft, he became distracted and allowed his airspeed to decrease, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.
He was unable to regain control and the plane subsequently hit a line of trees.
The NTSB determined the probable cause as the pilot not maintaining adequate airspeed while flying a visual pattern, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent loss of control.
NTSB Identification: CEN14CA413
This August 2014 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Not discounting the pilot’s requirement for situational awareness both internal and external but isn’t there enough issues to contend with on an uncontrolled field without adding in RC planes to the mix? Sounds like there needs to be some though put into what that strip is use for.
They should have said “pilot exceeded critical angle of attack, etc.” since that is the new buzzword.