Here is KUDU that goes into a spin; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6tgZVoZc7g

http://www.aircraft.co.za/Encyclopedia/A/266.php

MTOW for Atlas C4M KUDU is 2040 kg.

Earlier variant just 1745 kg; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aermacchi_AL-60

I personally think about 3 following reasons.

1. Overload
2. Thin air
3. Aerodynamics of CA 8

http://www.myaviation.net/search/photo_search.php?id=01816923&great_photos=photographer

A fairly reliable source has it that the engine malfunctioned, the aircraft began to spin shortly after and that the wing separated. It isn’t known yet if the aircraft was on (therefore set up) for run in, or whether the jumpers were starting to get out.

10 Jumpers on board with systems weighing about 10-12 kg apiece, the pilot and enough fuel for a couple of cycles, should all fit within the gross maximum weight (assuming the re-enforcement kits were used).

I have only read that the nose dropped and they called an emergency right after that.

The only door that let people out was the pilot door..pilot and 2 jumpers exited that route.

One of the perished was a decorated young lieutenant who definitely tried to open the main door and save the 2 ladies.

Also I read that some folks were “glued” to the ceiling unable to move while the plane spun down.

The Comp Air 8 is an American kit plane with a capacity of SEVEN people according to Wiki. The plane has a door for the pilot on the portside and two doors on the starboard side, so it was easy for the pilot to escape.

Wiki says 8 people….including the pilot.

It also says about the kit feature to carry more load.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comp_Air_8

With full fuel load it still only cuts for 8 adults !

We don’t of course but If I am wrong then we might conclude that Vettel or Alonso might have beaten him.

Is the Mercedes faster on the straight aways ?

Still doesn’t alter my original point.

So Rosberg instead has become a good driver ?

Was it scary….I mean was it like someone just shut off the electrics in the engine….thus no spark ?