Despite Multiple Attempts, They Were Unable To Recover From The Spin

Location: Edwards, CA Accident Number: WPR21LA123
Date & Time: March 5, 2021, 10:10 Local Registration: N155TP
Aircraft: Aermacchi IMPALA MB-326M Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

On March 5, 2021, about 1010 Pacific standard time, a Aermacchi Impala MB-326M airplane, N155TP, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Edwards, California. The flight instructor sustained serious injuries and pilot receiving instruction sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.

The operator reported that the purpose of the accident flight was to conduct spin training. While conducting a left rotation inverted spin, the pilot and flight instructor noticed that the airplane did not feel normal, and the rotation of the spin appeared to accelerate. Despite multiple attempts, they were unable to recover from the spin. Upon reaching their designated safe altitude, the flight instructor and pilot ejected from the airplane. Subsequently, the airplane impacted terrain and post impact fire ensued.

Photographs provided by the operator revealed that fuselage and wings were structurally damaged. The wreckage was recovered to a secure location for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov