North American Rockwell OV-10B Bronco, G-BZGK, 10 July 2012

North American Rockwell OV-10B Bronco, G-BZGK

Summary:

The pilot was performing a display practice during which he attempted a barrel roll. Approaching the inverted position, at the top of the manoeuvre, the nose of the aircraft dropped below the horizon and the aircraft entered a steep descent. The pilot had reduced the rate of roll, thinking that it was too fast, but the aircraft continued to pitch through the vertical. The aircraft struck the ground in an approximately wings level, upright attitude with a high rate of descent. There was an immediate post-impact fire but the RFFS were on standby and reached the aircraft rapidly. The pilot was assisted from the aircraft having suffered serious injuries.

The investigation identified areas of concern in the granting of regulatory approvals and authorisations, and subsequent related audits. Four Safety Recommendations are made.

Download report:

Rockwell OV-10B Bronco G-BZGK 01-14.pdf (656.01 kb)

Published 10 December 2014