Originally Posted by
Squawk7700
I personally went from a Skyfox Gazelle to a 172. I had my RAAUS certificate and after about 3.5 hours in a 172 I got my PPL.
I found the 172 very easy to fly with the exception of having to climb out a bit shallower than I was used to as the speed washed off more quickly than I was used to. It was a very simple conversion. I can't help but feel that he was experienced enough to be able to fly that aircraft.
172 drivers - To hit 170+ knots with a 10,000fpm descent rate, at 35 degrees dive with 1 stage of flaps applied from 1,000ft AGL, I'm assuming you'd practically need full power, would that be correct?
I'm also wondering why eye witnesses said that the engine sounded like it was over-revving, just after he lowered flaps, presumably about to turn onto base!
The report also notes he had 6.1 hours on 172s, which in the old days some good students would be solo in a 172 without any other flying experience at all. Still a lot of mystery about this occurrence before I come to any personal conclusions, why the flap setting? Showed an intention to turn a normal base. Wings level 60 degree nose down, why there, why then. Structural/mechanical failure seems less likely, as all components found on site, still, control issues, trim.. who knows. I hope they can find the answers in good time for the family and those involved.