Flight History
On 3 April 2003, a Cessna P210N Centurion, registration PH-WVW, departed from Malaga Airport at 09:34 local time on an IFR flight to San Sebastian Airport. The flight was a private, non-commercial ferry to Amsterdam. The flight plan specified a cruise at FL170 (17,000 ft) at 180 kt, with an estimated flight time of 2 hours 38 minutes and an alternate airport at Biarritz. The pilot maintained routine radio contact with air traffic control. The last radio communication was with San Sebastian tower at 13:31:24. The final radar return was recorded at 13:35:31. The accident occurred near Oroquieta, about 25 km north-northwest of Pamplona, at approximately 13:37 local time.
Injuries and Damage
Both occupants sustained fatal injuries upon impact. The aircraft was completely destroyed.
Wreckage and Impact
The wreckage was located 250 meters south of Oroquieta. Investigators found that the left wing had separated from the aircraft during flight, indicating an in-flight structural breakup. The aircraft struck the ground with high velocity.
Investigation
The Civil Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Commission (CIAIAC) conducted the investigation. They examined the wreckage, including a detailed analysis of the left wing fractures. Eyewitness statements were collected, and information was obtained from the aircraft manufacturer. The engine and propeller were also inspected; no malfunctions were reported that would have caused the failure.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Cessna P210N Centurion, a single-engine retractable-gear general aviation airplane, registered PH-WVW. It held a valid airworthiness certificate and its maintenance records were reviewed.