What happened
On September 8, 2001, a Piper PA-25-150, registration EC-ASA, departed from Sabadell Airport (Runway 31) to perform a banner towing operation. During the approach to hook the banner, the pilot flew too low and out of alignment. This maneuver caused the aircraft to snag the intended banner with a main landing gear wheel and simultaneously strike a second banner on an adjacent mast with the wing.
The additional aerodynamic drag from the two banners severely compromised the aircraft's flight stability. Following established operator procedures, the pilot attempted to release the banners while completing the circuit, but was unsuccessful. Unable to maintain flight, the pilot performed an emergency landing in a cleared area approximately 930 meters beyond the end of Runway 31.
Upon impact, the main landing gear collapsed, and a fire broke out, likely caused by fuel contacting hot engine components. The aircraft was destroyed by the fire. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, dying eleven days later from severe burns.