• BuNo: 159386
• Location: 110 miles South of San Clemente Island
• Date: Wed 19-Feb-1992
• Cause: Pilot/COTAC Error
• Findings: At approximately 2250Z 110 miles South of San Clemente Island, Pilot instructed Copilot to perform maneuvers at which he became uncomfortable, Pilot took over controls, mishap aircraft was in a post-stall gyration with 30 to 35 degrees nose down and spinning. At 9,000 feet Pilot indicated he had regained control of aircraft, then suddenly aircraft snap rolled back to the right and continued downward. Passing 6,500 feet ejection was initiated by copilot.
  Cause due to aircrew error, in which Pilot instructed Copilot/COTAC to perform a maneuver that was contrary to normal VS community practice and it exceeded COTAC's abilities and training.
  Crew of 2 with 1 fatal.
  Source: JAG Investigation Report
  Comments from JAG Investigation Report: Recommend change to OPNAVINST: Naval flight officers, NATOPS qualified in model, may fly in actual control of any dual controlled aircraft during normal phases of flight not including landing and takeoff, subject to the same limitations as a Pilot not qualified in model. A command designated Pilot in Command must be occupying the Pilot's seat and retains responsibility for aircraft safety, including ensuring that the aircraft does not approach extremis or unrecoverable situations.
  Investigation Officer opinion that ejection did not occur prior to 4,500 feet and that it may occurred as late as 2,200 feet.

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