Accidents associated with aerobatic maneuvers in U.S. aviation.
BACKGROUND
Aerobatic flights are the most significant risk factor for fatal injury and make up 50% of U.S. accidents in general aviation involving airport transport pilots.


METHODS
An analysis of the dangers of these maneuvers is presented using 25 yr of U.S. reported accidents.


RESULTS
More than 80% of the 494 accidents were fatal. The main cause of accident was not maintaining (proper) altitude while adverse weather was not present as a cause of accident. Nearly half the number of pilots had over 7500 h of flight experience. Homebuilt aircraft appear significantly more likely to be part of a fatal accident, showing more structural, engine, and system failures.


CONCLUSIONS
Although there is a downward trend in the number of aerobatic-related accidents, the reduction of accidents is much assisted by either regulation or awareness training of pilots using homebuilt aircraft in aerobatic maneuvers.
de Voogt
Alexander J
AJ
Work & Social Psychology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands. alex.devoogt@psychology.unimaas.nl
van Doom
Robert R A
RR
D000060:Accidents, Aviation / Q000639:trends*; D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000639:trends*; D000401:Aircraft; D006801:Humans; D011361:Professional Competence; D014481:United States