What happened
On October 4, 2016, a NEICO Lancair 360, registration SE-XRH, was conducting a general aviation flight from Romania toward Sweden. While traversing Slovak airspace at FL190, the pilot contacted air traffic control to report unspecified engine problems and requested a descent to FL130. Despite the pilot's report that engine performance appeared to be recovering, the aircraft's flight path became erratic. Radar data showed significant changes in heading and altitude, followed by a rapid, uncontrolled descent. The aircraft eventually struck trees and crashed into a forested area near Jakubovany at a high angle and high speed. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation examined radar records, radio communications, and wreckage debris. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's altitude profile and the meteorological conditions present during the flight. The study included a review of the pilot's communications, noting a distinct change in speech patterns between the start of the flight and the period of the accident. Additionally, the investigation looked into the presence of icing conditions and the functionality of the onboard oxygen equipment.
Findings
- The pilot was flying at FL190, an altitude where supplemental oxygen is required for safe breathing, yet the cockpit was not pressurized.
- The pilot's speech during the final communications was slower and less accurate compared to earlier in the flight, suggesting potential hypoxia.
- The aircraft was not equipped with a de-icing system for the wings or propeller.
- Meteorological data confirmed the presence of heavy cloud cover and conditions suitable for moderate to heavy ice formation.
- The pilot likely misidentified a loss of airspeed caused by maneuvers as an engine power loss.
- The aircraft entered an uncontrolled spiral descent, leading to the impact.