What happened
On 31 August 2022, a privately owned Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, registered as N208JM, was conducting a visual flight rules (VFR) flight from Sweihan Air Base to Al Bateen Executive Airport in the United Arab Emirates. The aircraft was operated by a single pilot with no passengers on board.
During the descent toward runway 31, the pilot began a steepening vertical flight path. The aircraft struck tall palm trees near the gardens of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque before impacting the ground approximately one kilometer from the runway threshold. The impact and subsequent fire resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. The pilot sustained burns but successfully evacuated the wreckage and was treated at a local hospital.
The investigation
The UAE Air Accident Investigation Sector (AAIS) conducted the inquiry, coordinating with the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as the state of registry and manufacture. Investigators examined the aircraft's flight path, engine controls, and the pilot's actions during the final approach. The investigation also reviewed the regulatory oversight of foreign-registered aircraft operating within the UAE and the emergency response protocols of the aerodrome.
Findings
- The pilot attempted to reduce airspeed and altitude by moving the engine power lever into beta mode, a maneuver intended only for use after landing and prohibited during flight.
- During this maneuver, the pilot inadvertently moved the fuel condition lever from the high idle position to the cutoff position, resulting in an unintended engine shutdown.
- Following the engine failure, the aircraft's descent angle became much steeper than the standard glidepath.
- The pilot's attention was diverted to an unsuccessful attempt to restart the engine, which led to a loss of situational awareness regarding the aircraft's altitude and flight path.
- The aircraft was operating without the required GCAA no objection certificate, and the pilot was flying with an expired medical certificate and expired aircraft insurance.
Safety action
- Cessna is recommended to assess the implementation of a mechanical detent or artificial force mechanism to prevent the power lever from being moved into prohibited beta mode during flight.
- Abu Dhabi Airports is advised to review its emergency response and notification protocols to ensure local police and civil defense are properly alerted during incidents.
- The GCAA is recommended to strengthen oversight of foreign-registered aircraft and improve coordination with aerodrome operators to detect unauthorized operations.