What happened
On 12 October 2003, a Cirrus SR-22, registration N-100BR, crashed into the southern slopes of the Montes Alberes in the Catalan Pyrenees. The aircraft was conducting a recreational VFR flight from Ibiza Airport to Bale-Mulhouse Airport. The flight was carrying four occupants, including the pilot.
During the flight, the aircraft was operating at a level of approximately 1,500 ft. While the flight proceeded normally through various air traffic control sectors, the aircraft eventually entered an area characterized by overcast skies, low visibility, and a cloud base that obscured the mountain peaks. The aircraft struck the terrain at an elevation of 830 m (2,720 ft), resulting in the four fatalities on board and the total destruction of the aircraft by fire.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the flight path, weather conditions, and wreckage distribution. Investigators determined that the aircraft struck the mountain at high speed in a controlled flight state. The wreckage pattern indicated a direct impact against the mountain, with a slight climbing attitude noted just before the collision.
Analysis of the flight plan and radar data showed that the aircraft had requested a course change toward Perpignan, though this had not been expressly authorized by control at the time of the last contact. The investigation also noted that the pilot was seated in the right-hand seat, which is not the standard position, potentially affecting the ability to estimate terrain height during the flight.
Findings
- The pilot held a valid private pilot license and was rated for the aircraft type.
- The aircraft was airworthy and properly maintained.
- Weather conditions in the accident area included low visibility and clouds that hid the mountain tops from view.
- The aircraft failed to reach the minimum safety altitude of 4,500 ft required by the Visual Flight Chart for that area.
- The primary cause was the aircraft failing to reach sufficient altitude to clear the mountains, which were obscured by clouds.
- The pilot continued VFR operations despite the presence of instrument meteorological conditions.