What happened
On July 14, 2006, at 12:16 local time, a Cessna 172-N, registration EC-HQR, operated by Aerotec, crashed in the municipality of El Rosario, Tenerife. The aircraft was conducting a flight instruction mission, flying from Gran Canaria to Tenerife Norte and back.
Prior to departure from Tenerife Norte, air traffic control informed the crew that weather conditions at the aerodrome were Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), with a cloud ceiling of 800 ft. In response, the pilot requested a change to a Special VFR flight plan, which was approved. The aircraft departed Tenerife Norte at 12:10:48 on runway 30, with a reported wind of 330 degrees at 21 knots.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft established communication with Approach Control. However, five minutes after departure, radar contact and radio communications were lost. The aircraft's transponder indicated a maximum altitude of 3,100 ft MSL. The aircraft eventually impacted the ground in a nearly vertical attitude at a location between the La Esperanza and Llano del Moro areas. The impact resulted in 3 fatalities, involving the instructor and two students. There was no post-impact fire.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the flight's trajectory, meteorological conditions, and the regulatory framework for Special VFR operations in Spain. Investigators analyzed radar data, which showed the aircraft flying a southbound route over the La Esperanza village. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, which were found to be in compliance with the approved program, and confirmed that the engine was functioning correctly at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The flight was operating under Special VFR rules due to low ceilings at the departure aerodrome.
- The aircraft's altitude of 3,100 ft MSL provided a very slim margin of only approximately 275 ft above the terrain as it passed over a mountain pass.
- The aircraft was flying at a reduced speed, likely due to marginal visibility.
- Strong winds (21 knots) were present, perpendicular to the mountain ridge, which could have created downdrafts and turbulence on the leeward side.
- Spatial disorientation or a loss of control in flight is the estimated cause, potentially triggered by the aircraft transitioning between cloud cover and clear air over mountainous terrain.
Safety action
- The investigation issued a recommendation to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to more clearly define the requirements for Special VFR flights, specifically regarding the obligation to remain clear of clouds and maintain visual contact with the ground.