Pilot Was Inverted When Lap belt Released

A preliminary report on the cause of a Canadian Snowbird accident in Montana that claimed the life of its pilot said a seatbelt failure is to blame.

As ANN reported, Capt. Shawn McCaughey was lost when his CT-114 Tutor jet crashed near a Montana air force base during a show rehearsal May 18. The report, released Monday, said McCaughey lost control of the aircraft when his lap belt unfastened while he was flying inverted.

"Initial analysis has determined that the pilot's lap belt became unfastened when SB No. 2 rolled inverted, causing the pilot to fall out of his seat and lose control of the aircraft," the report states.

The investigation is now focusing on why.

McCaughey, flying the No. 2 aircraft, off the lead's left wing, was apparently not able to eject and died on impact.

The maneuver the team was practicing at the time of the accident required the lead aircraft to fly upright across the show line flanked by inverted aircraft off each wing and one behind, according to the Toronto Star.

"As SB 2 was rolling inverted for the . . . pass, the aircraft was seen to dip low, waver, and then depart the formation," the report said. "Still inverted, the aircraft climbed, then subsequently rolled upright.

"Upon reaching a nearly wings-level attitude, at approximately 750 feet above ground level, the aircraft nosed over."

There have been some modifications made to the pilot restraint system as well as enhanced training for aircrews and passengers and changes to the aircraft operating instructions since the accident.

Since 1972, six Snowbird pilots have been lost in accidents. Many of the accidents have reportedly been caused by mechanical problems. Some are saying the 1960s model Canadair CT-114 Tutors should just be retired altogether, as their life expectancy is said to be 2010; Canada's National Defense was told they should be replaced four years ago.

The team suspended performances for a month after the accident, and when they resumed dedicated the season to McCaughey (above).

A five-season veteran, Capt. Paul Couillard, has been named as the replacement.

FMI: www.snowbirds.dnd.ca