Engine Malfunction Allegedly Causes Fatal Plane Crash

This case involves a pilot that died in a plane crash. At the time of the crash, the pilot was 63 years old with 30 years of aviation experience. The plane the pilot was flying had been serviced several weeks before the accident. It underwent a full inspection, new parts were installed, and the plane was deemed ready to fly. It was alleged that an engine malfunction caused the plane to crash. An expert in aviation accidents was sought to determine the cause of the accident, whether by human error or malfunction of the plane or its parts.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Please explain your background in aviation.

2. Are you able to determine the cause of the accident by reviewing the NTSB report?

Expert Witness Response E-009401

I am a consultant with general/commercial aviation experience, regulatory experience with the FAA, and piloting experience as a retired US Army/FAA experimental test pilot. I have FAA airplane, rotorcraft, seaplane and ground instructor ratings. I am also an FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) Flight Test Analyst. I have relevant experience in numerous forums on accidents, causal analysis, and human factors. I have provided expert witness testimony and reports on both airplane and rotorcraft accidents. I also have participated in numerous investigations on either the FAA or other parties. I have participated in engine accidents, general aviation, commercial aviation, and rotorcraft accidents. Upon review of the NTSB reports and the docket, I could determine the cause of the accident.