Piper PA-28R-200 In-Flight Breakup in Lake Saimaa, Finland

Accident Overview and Casualties On August 15, 2008, at 1014 UTC, a Piper PA-28R-200 with Finland registration OH-PDY broke up in flight while maneuvering in clouds and subsequently crashed into Lake Saimaa in Taipalsaari, Finland. The aircraft was destroyed, and all three persons on board—a flight instructor and two student pilots—were killed. ## Flight Details and Operational Context The instructional flight originated at Kuopio Airport (EFKU) in Kuopio, Finland, and was scheduled to land at Lappeenranta Airport (EFLP) in Lappeenranta, Finland. The pilot had received clearance to the Northern Training Area at Lappeenranta TMA. ## Weather Conditions Marginal visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. Weather conditions at Kuopio were reported as 1,500 feet scattered clouds and light rain showers, 4,500 feet broken clouds, 5 miles visibility, winds from 240 degrees at 12 knots, temperature 63 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point 59 degrees Fahrenheit, and altimeter setting 29.71 inches. ## Witness Accounts An eye-witness reported that an airplane had crashed into Lake Saimaa. Several persons had seen the airplane coming out of the clouds and crashing into the lake. Approximately 30 seconds to a minute after the crash, they reported seeing three large pieces descending slowly to the lake. ## Investigation Jurisdiction This investigation is under the jurisdiction and control of the Finnish government. Further information may be obtained from the Accident Investigation Board Finland, located at Sornaisten rantatie 33C, FIN-00580 Helsinki, Finland. The report is for informational purposes only and contains only information released by, or obtained from, the AIB of Finland.