What happened
On October 6, 2019, a Cessna 172S aircraft, registered as VT-RGF, was conducting a solo cross-country training flight from Begumpet Airport. The flight, operated by Wings Aviation Pvt. Ltd., was under the command of a student pilot. After taking off from runway 27, the aircraft initially climbed to 6500 feet. However, while approximately 40 nautical miles from the Begumpet VOR, radar observations showed the aircraft performing an unusual maneuver, climbing to 7400 feet before descending to 6400 feet.
Facing heavy rain, the pilot requested permission from ATC Shamshabad to descend to 4600 feet and return to Begumpet. Shortly after this request, the aircraft's radar position disappeared. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a cotton field in Sultanpur Village, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and two fatalities.
The investigation
AAIB India investigators examined the flight history, weather conditions, and aircraft maintenance records. The investigation established that the aircraft and its engine were fully compliant with all airworthiness directives and maintenance schedules. The student pilot held a valid license and was qualified for the mission.
Investigators also looked into the personnel on board. While the student pilot had reported the number of persons on board as one, a second individual—a CPL holder—had boarded the aircraft from a hangar prior to taxiing. The investigation also noted that the Deputy Chief Flying Instructor had authorized the flight in the absence of the Chief Flying Instructor. \_## Findings
- The aircraft encountered downward wind shear during its descent through moderate precipitation.
- This wind shear caused a significant reduction in airspeed and a sudden loss of lift, leading to an increased sink rate.
- Due to the low altitude at the time of the encounter, the pilot had insufficient time or altitude to execute a recovery maneuver.
- The aircraft impacted the ground at a high vertical speed, causing it to disintegrate upon impact.
Safety action
- The DGCA is advised to enhance safety oversight of Flying Training Organizations (FTOs), specifically regarding operational procedures.
- Chief Flying Instructors should ensure all training strictly adheres to regulations, with increased emphasis on weather briefings.
- FTOs should implement robust systems to ensure 100% supervision of training sorties by the CFI or Deputy CFI as required by regulations.