What happened
In May 2018, two separate accidents involving powered aircraft resulted in fatalities. On 22 May 2018, a Reims F172N departed Rotterdam The Hague Airport for a proficiency check. While flying near Stolwijk, the aircraft's left wing struck several trees, causing the wing to detach and leading to a fatal crash that killed both occupants. Shortly after, on 31 May 2018, a Piper Pawnee crashed near Breda International Airport. The accident occurred immediately after the aircraft had picked up an advertising banner, resulting in the death of the solo pilot and the destruction of the aircraft by fire.
Other notable occurrences included a runway excursion involving a New Piper PA-28-181 at Breda International Airport on 15 June 2018, where the aircraft veered off the runway and through airport fencing. In the glider sector, an LS 4-b experienced a significant incident on 23 April 2018 when the air brake lever detached during flight, forcing the pilot to manually manage the mechanism. Additionally, a near-collision between an ASK 21 and an Orlican Discus CS was recorded near Terlet on 26 May 2018 after FLARM collision warnings were triggered.
The investigation
The Dutch Safety Board (OVV) examined the circumstances surrounding these events, including the mechanical failure of the LS 4-b air brake lever and the flight path of the Reims F172N. The investigation into the LS 4-b identified that a manufacturer-issued modification had been installed incorrectly. For the near-collision at Terlet, the OVV reviewed the effectiveness of radio broadcasts for parachutists near the Teuge drop zone, noting that the lack of a required read-back procedure creates a safety gap.
Findings
- The LS 4-b air brake lever detachment was linked to a modification that was not installed in full accordance with manufacturer instructions.
- The lack of a mandatory read-back for radio broadcasts regarding parachutists means pilots cannot be certain that all personnel have heard the warning.
- In the case of the Reims F172N, the impact with trees was the direct cause of the wing detachment and subsequent fatal crash.
- For the Piper Pawnee, the accident occurred during the high-risk maneuver of banner towing.