History of the Flight
On 5 July 2007, at 13:49 UTC, a Cessna 208B Caravan, registered N208EC, crashed at Connemara Airport (EICA) in Inverin, Co. Galway, Ireland. The aircraft was returning from Inis Meáin (EIMN) on a short demonstration flight for potential investors. The flight had departed earlier that morning from Weston (EIWT) near Dublin, arriving at EICA around 09:00-09:15. After a familiarisation flight to Inis Meáin, the pilot returned to EICA, where passengers boarded. Due to passenger numbers, two flights were planned, but on arrival at Inis Meáin, the pilot informed those remaining that he would not return. An Aer Arran Islander aircraft later transported the remainder of the group.
After a presentation, the aircraft took off from Inis Meáin with eight passengers for the return flight to EICA. The approach was to Runway 05 at EICA, but a go-around was initiated. During the go-around, the aircraft struck the ground in an open field north of the runway, just outside the airport boundary fence, close to the terminal building.
Witness Observations
Ground witnesses reported hearing engine noise and seeing the aircraft emerge from low cloud. One witness described the aircraft appearing very low and off course, with the engine loud. He saw the aircraft hit a mound, bounce, and then cartwheel, coming to rest on its left side. Another witness saw the left wing catch a mound, followed by a violent spin and cartwheel. The aircraft came down nose first, crumpling, and ended up facing west. No fire occurred.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and one passenger were fatally injured. The remaining seven passengers were seriously injured. The aircraft was destroyed. Fuel leaked from both wings but no fire ensued.
Rescue and Notification
Airport fire crews responded quickly, followed by ambulance, local doctor, Galway Fire Services, and a Coastguard helicopter that transported injured to hospital. The Gardaí secured the site. The AAIU was notified at 14:30 and a Go-team arrived at 17:00.
Weather and Operational Factors
The accident occurred in marginal weather conditions. There had been a significant wind shift from the morning, of which the pilot appeared unaware. A landing was attempted downwind. At a late stage, a go-around was initiated at very low speed and high power. The aircraft turned left, did not gain altitude, and maintained a horizontal trajectory before hitting a mound left wing first.
Investigation
The investigation was conducted by the AAIU, led by Inspector Paddy Judge, with technical assistance from Graham Liddy and Micheál Ryan. Accredited representatives from Cessna and the engine manufacturer assisted.