AL 1998-01
19 June 1998
Spin Recovery Procedures
Transport Canada has received information from the Safety Data Department of the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) which details a dual fatality PA28-140 accident that occurred in September 1996. The accident occurred during a deliberate spin conducted as part of a flying instructor candidate's training. The aircraft failed to recover from the spin and impacted the water; both occupants were incapacitated upon impact and drowned.
Although the investigation was unable to determine why the aircraft did not recover from the spin - the accident aircraft apparently had a history of unusually flat spin behaviour - it was determined that the flightcrew were not aware of the existence of Piper Service Bulletin (SB) 753 dated 15 December 1982 which details the expanded spin recovery procedures for the PA28-140. A safety recommendation was made that the CAA bring to the attention of UK owners and operators of the PA28-140, the existence and content of this Piper service bulletin. Transport Canada believes it prudent to take similar action in Canada.
Therefore, it is recommended that owners and operators of PA28-140 aircraft affected by Piper SB 753 ensure that:
- Flightcrew are briefed on the importance of being familiar with the contents of Piper SB 753.
- A copy of Piper SB 753 is readily available for review by flightcrew prior to flight; in particular those flights where spins are to be performed.
For further information contact a Transport Canada Centre, or Mr. Ian McLellan, Continuing Airworthiness, Ottawa, telephone (613) 952-4362, facsimile (613) 996-9178 or e-mail mclelli@tc.gc.ca.
For Director, National Aircraft Certification
B. Goyaniuk
Acting Chief, Continuing Airworthiness