What happened
On the night of December 1, 2000, a Piper PA-31-350, registration SE-KGH, was conducting an air taxi flight from Kalmar to Ljungby/Feringe airport. While approaching the airfield in darkness and low visibility, the crew attempted to follow an NDB procedure. During the approach, the aircraft descended below the minimum decision altitude and struck trees, which tore approximately one meter of the right wing from the airframe.
The impact caused a significant rightward bank and a loud bang, leading the crew to declare a serious flight control problem. Despite the structural damage and the need for constant left rudder input to maintain control, the crew managed to divert to Halm_stad airport. They successfully performed a high-speed landing at Halmstad, where they were met by emergency services. There were no injuries to the two crew members.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the aircraft, the flight recorders, and the operational procedures of the operator. The investigation looked into the cockpit dynamics, the commander's qualifications, and the regulatory oversight provided by the Swedish Civil Aviation Administration (LFV).
Investigators found that the aircraft and the airport's navigation equipment were functioning correctly. However, the probe revealed significant discrepancies in the company's operational routines, including inadequate training and monitoring of pilots. Furthermore, the investigation highlighted deficiencies in how the national aviation authority supervised smaller operators and selected its own inspectors.
Findings
Several critical factors contributed to the collision:
- The commander incorrectly reported that the aircraft had passed the outer locator, which led to the co-pilot resetting the ADF instruments and initiating the final descent roughly one minute too early.
- There was a lack of effective monitoring regarding the aircraft's altitude and position during the final approach.
- A breakdown in crew coordination occurred, specifically a misunderstanding regarding which pilot was flying the aircraft.
- The aircraft descended below the minimum decision altitude, resulting in the impact with trees.
Additionally, the investigation noted that the commander had a serious hearing impairment that had not been properly addressed during his medical renewal, and that significant differences in experience and communication styles between the two pilots hindered effective multi-crew cooperation.