What happened
On June 23, 2007, at 18:20 local time, a Cessna 172 (registration EC-HOT) was conducting a private local flight departing from Aeródromo de la Cerdaña. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and three passengers. After flying through the valley of the Durán River, the pilot attempted to gain altitude by performing two 360-degree turns over the town of Meranges.
While climbing toward the Malniu refuge, the aircraft initiated a left turn near the Sec pond. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a rising slope at an altitude of 2,158 meters. The impact caused significant damage to the engine mount, propeller, and fuselage. The pilot was killed in the crash, while two passengers sustained serious injuries and one passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The CIAIAC examined the wreckage, the aircraft's maintenance records, and meteorological data. Investigators reconstructed the flight path using witness statements and photographs taken moments before the impact. The investigation focused on the aircraft's configuration, the engine performance, and the aerodynamic conditions in the valley.
Technical analysis of the propeller marks and the wreckage indicated that the impact occurred at a relatively low ground speed. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's weight and balance, finding that the center of gravity was within design limits but positioned toward the rear, which can make the aircraft more sensitive to pitch inputs. Meteorological analysis revealed north winds of 15 to 20 knots, which likely created downdrafts and turbulence on the leeward side of the mountains.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an aerodynamic stall resulting from low airspeed and an inadequate flap configuration.
- The flaps were set to 10 degrees, a position that increased induced drag and contributed to the loss of airspeed during the climb.
- Wind conditions, specifically potential downdrafts and turbulence caused by the wind hitting the mountain range, likely hindered the pilot's ability to maintain control of the aircraft's attitude and speed.
- The pilot's injuries were significantly worsened because the upper portion of the safety belt was not fastened.
- There were no indications of mechanical failure or engine malfunction prior to the impact.