History of the Flight
On 20 November 2025, the pilot of EI-HPY filed a flight plan from Sligo Airport (EISG) to Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport (LFMU) with a departure time of 10:30 UTC. The aircraft taxied at 11:08, conducted an initial takeoff and landing, then departed again at approximately 11:10 for the planned ferry flight to Slovenia. At 12:17, Shannon ATC transferred control to UK Western Radar, which shortly after reported that EI-HPY declared an emergency due to low fuel pressure and an alternator issue on one engine. Control was transferred back to Shannon ATC, which provided weather and diversion options to Waterford Airport (EIWF). At 12:38, the pilot contacted Waterford Tower, requesting a direct approach because the left alternator was ‘off’ and left engine fuel pressure was ‘low’. The controller cleared the aircraft into the control zone and advised no altitude restrictions. At 12:44, the pilot reported descending to 4,000 ft and had the airfield in sight by 12:45. The pilot stated he would make a normal landing but had reduced power on the left engine, which was ‘still working’, and that advancing the throttle caused shaking. At 12:48, EI-HPY was cleared to land on Runway 03 with winds northerly at 12 knots. At 12:49, the pilot requested a wind check, then stated he would ‘make a left circle’. A mobile phone video recorded by an eyewitness shows the aircraft in a gentle left turn, wings level momentarily, then a steep left turn with rapid altitude loss. The aircraft impacted terrain in an agricultural field west of Runway 03 approximately seven seconds after entering the steep turn. The pilot was fatally injured. No fire occurred.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot sustained fatal injuries. Emergency services responded immediately; the airport rescue vehicle was dispatched at 12:50.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Vulcanair P.68C-TC, serial number 485-52TC, year of manufacture 2015, registered in Ireland as EI-HPY. It had been purchased by a Slovenian company in May 2025 and ferried to Ireland in July for re-registration from the UK register. The aircraft did not fly between its arrival at Sligo Airport on 24 July and the accident date. On 19 November, the aircraft was refuelled with 310 litres of Avgas.
Accident Site and Wreckage
The accident occurred at Lisselan, Co. Waterford, Ireland, at approximately 12:49 UTC. The aircraft was destroyed. The AAIU conducted a site survey and recovered the wreckage to its facility for further examination.
Investigation
The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) of Ireland is conducting the investigation. This preliminary report contains information known at the time and does not include analysis or conclusions. A final report will be published later.