I’ve seen the footage numerous times. To me, if he had had the courage to push the stick Forward slightly and unload the aircraft I think he might have got out of that one intact. High AoA = High drag (but not enough power to climb out of it). Lower the nose (slightly) = less drag and allow airspeed and control surface effectiveness to build up = survival. The aeroplane seemed to behave remarkably well in my book being abused as it was. It was made to do its “Sabre Dance” – it didn’t want to do it.

Just my thoughts but, as I am aware, it might be counter-intuitive to push the stick forward when so close to the ground.

Anon.