Prelimiinary Report: Wing separates second MU-2

Mitsubishi MU-2, Argyle, Fla., Sept. 1, 2006–An MU-2, leased from Intercontinental Jet by Berg Steel Pipe, lost its left wing in flight and crashed in instrument conditions near Interstate 10. The ATP-rated pilot asked ATC for a lower altitude, saying, “…like to get down lower so we can get underneath this stuff.” The NTSB said the left wing separated from the airplane and was found, engine attached, half a mile from the accident site. The sole-occupant pilot was killed. A witness heard a bang and saw the airplane spiraling down and shedding parts. The witness reported lightning and thunder in the area. The NTSB said preliminary investigation showed “an overload situation, no aging or fatigue involved.”