What happened
On January 23, 2016, a pilot took off from Reinsvoll Airport in a Cessna 172S, registration LN-AGT, with the intention of performing several landing practice rounds. Although the pilot had checked weather forecasts and was aware of low cloud cover in the area, the aircraft entered thick clouds shortly after departure at an altitude of approximately 600 feet.
Lacking instrument flight qualifications, the pilot attempted to maneuver toward the downwind leg to regain visual contact with the runway. When this failed, the pilot initiated a 180-degree turn to the right to avoid rising terrain. During this turn, the pilot realized the aircraft was descending with a significant bank angle. To avoid the terrain, the pilot opted to climb through the clouds, eventually reaching approximately 4,000 feet AMSL, where visual conditions improved.
After several attempts to locate a suitable landing site, the pilot contacted air traffic services on the emergency frequency. Following coordination with Oslo Approach, the pilot was eventually vectored to a successful landing at Fagernes Airport Leirin after approximately 90 minutes of flight in obscured conditions.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making regarding weather margins and the lack of instrument flight proficiency. Investigators examined the aircraft's flight path, the weather conditions at Reinsvoll and surrounding areas, and the pilot's communication with air traffic control. The inquiry also looked into the pilot's lack of recent flying experience and the decision to fly despite known low cloud ceilings.
Findings
- The pilot was not qualified for instrument flight and had not flown for two months prior to the incident.
- The aircraft entered instrument meteorological conditions almost immediately after takeoff.
- During a corrective maneuver to avoid terrain, the pilot experienced a period of disorientation where the aircraft was descending and banking steeply.
- The pilot's decision to climb through the clouds was the primary factor that allowed the aircraft to reach visual meteorological conditions (VFR on top).
- The pilot's decision to contact air traffic services on the emergency frequency was a critical factor in resolving the situation safely.
Safety action
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (NSIA) noted that this incident highlights the necessity of maintaining safety margins when flying near minimum weather requirements. The authority recommended that the Norwegian Air Sports Association (NLF) update and reintroduce Good Aviation Practice (GAP) materials to encourage better safety awareness among club pilots.