What happened
On April 20, 2003, at approximately 15:45 UTC, a Socata TB-10, registration CS-DDH, crashed approximately two kilometers east of Viseu Municipal Aerodrome. The aircraft, operated by the flight school Léavia, had departed from runway 19 heading east toward the Serra da Estrela mountains. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft disappeared from view near a dark cloud, and the sound of the engine ceased.
Search efforts were initiated the following evening after the aircraft was reported missing by air traffic control in Cascais. The wreckage was located the next morning by a National Fire Service helicopter crew. The impact occurred in a wooded area, where the aircraft struck two pine trees before hitting the ground. The collision resulted in two fatalities and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's qualifications, and the prevailing meteorological conditions. The investigation noted that the pilot, a 24-year-old flight instructor, had traveled to Viseu earlier that day. Although the pilot had observed marginal VFR conditions upon landing in Viseu, he proceeded with the planned departure.
Investigators analyzed the engine and propeller components, noting a fracture in the engine shaft near the propeller hub and damage to one propeller blade. While the weather conditions were highly conducive to carburetor icing, investigators ruled out engine failure due to icing, as the engine was still producing power at the time of impact. The investigation also looked into the pilot's decision-making process, noting that the pilot was under psychological pressure to adhere to his flight plan despite the deteriorating weather.
Findings
- The meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were unsuitable for VFR flight, characterized by moderate continuous rain, fog, and low visibility (between 0.2 and 3.0 km).
- The pilot's decision to proceed with the flight despite adverse weather was a significant contributing factor.
- The pilot was experiencing psychological pressure and anxiety regarding his commitment to the flight plan and his responsibilities to the flight school.
- The aerodrome lacked active flight information services and weather reporting services at the time of the incident.
- The aircraft was properly maintained and the pilot was fully qualified for the operation.