Accident Overview
On 1 August 2017 at 2100 local time, an Aquila AT01-100 aircraft, registration LN-NRB, collided with the western vertical mountain side of Nordre Dyttholknatten in Sør-Aurdal Municipality, Norway. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and subsequent fire. The pilot, the sole occupant, was killed.
Flight Sequence
The flight originated from Kjeller with takeoff at 2010. The pilot had booked the aircraft through the Nedre Romerike Flyklubb booking system from 2000 to 2200. His intention was to conduct a navigation flight toward the Vassfaret area and return to Kjeller. According to radar data and witness statements, the aircraft turned over Lake Nevlingen and followed the valley eastward. Two witnesses observed the aircraft; they reported good visibility below a cloud layer and no significant changes in course or altitude in the final phase. Just before impact, the aircraft had a left bank of approximately 3–5 degrees. The aircraft struck the same mountain face it had passed shortly earlier.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The Aquila AT01-100 (serial number not specified) was owned and operated by Nedre Romerike Flyklubb. The 22-year-old pilot held a Private Pilot Licence (PPL A) issued on 24 May 2017 and a valid Class 1 medical certificate. His total flight time was 76 hours, with 23 hours on type. He had not begun his intended airline pilot training.
Investigation Findings
The Accident Investigation Board of Norway (SHT) examined wreckage fragments, witness reports, and impact marks. No evidence of technical or operational problems prior to impact was found, though the extensive damage prevented full examination of all components. Based on available facts, the board could not determine why the accident occurred.
Damage and Aftermath
The aircraft was completely destroyed. Fuel tanks ruptured, and spilled fuel ignited, causing a fire that spread to vegetation on the mountainside and at the base of the cliff. These fires self-extinguished. Wreckage was scattered down the slope.
Conclusion
The investigation was unable to establish a probable cause for the accident.