2 fatal · Aero Vodochody Aero. Works L-39CT · 2001-01-24 · Watkins, CO, USA
Event
NTSB number
DEN01FA044
Event ID
20010202X00390
Type
Accident
Date
2001-01-24
Location
Watkins, CO, USA
Coordinates
39.762222, -104.57917
Injuries
Highest injury
FATL
Fatal
2
Serious
0
Minor
0
Uninjured
0
Total aboard
2
Aircraft
Make
Aero Vodochody Aero. Works
Model
L-39CT
Registration
N602MC
FAR Part
091
Engines
1
Damage
DEST
Conditions
Light
DAYL
Weather
VMC
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control, and the subsequent inadvertent stall/mush. Factors were the pilot's diverted attention due to the failure of the rear canopy's acrylic transparency and the loss of communication with his back seat passenger, the pilot's lack of recent experience in make/model airplane, the airplane's improper aft weight distribution (center of gravity), and the pilot's fatigue (circadian rhythm).