What happened
On November 27, 2008, at 16:46 local time, an Airbus A320 operated by XL Airways Germany crashed into the Mediterranean Sea. The aircraft, registered D-AXLA, was performing an approach to runway 33 at Perpignan Rivesaltes airport (LFMP) in Perpignan, France, when the impact occurred.
The aircraft struck the water approximately 7 kilometers from the coastline. Following the accident, the wreckage was reported to be submerged between 30 and 40 meters below the surface. The accident resulted in 7 fatalities.
The investigation
The Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses pour la Sécurité de l’Aviation civile (BEA) is leading the investigation into the accident. Because the aircraft was equipped with International Aero Engines (IAE) V2500 engines, the NTSB is providing a U.S. Accredited Representative to assist the French authorities. Technical advisors from the FAA and IAE are also participating in the investigation alongside an NTSB powerplants specialist.