What happened
On a scheduled service from Barcelona to Düsseldorf, the Airbus A320 (flight 4U9525/GWI18G) departed at 10:00 LT. After reaching its assigned cruising altitude of 38,000 feet near Toulon at approximately 10:31 LT, the aircraft began a continuous descent. For nine minutes, the plane descended in a straight line until it reached an altitude of 6,800 feet. During this period, the flight crew did not transmit any distress signals.
At 10:41 LT, radar contact was lost as the aircraft struck a mountain slope near Prads-Haute-Bléone, northeast of Digne-les-Bains. Weather conditions at the time were reported as favorable, with no turbulence or storm activity present. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate, and all 150 fatalities were confirmed. Rescuers reached the wreckage later that afternoon.
Findings
The investigation determined that the collision was the result of a deliberate action by the co-pilot, who entered the cockpit alone with the intent to commit suicide. The inquiry highlighted failures in the medical certification process, noting that the co-pilot's mental health disorder and psychotic symptoms were not identified due to a lack of self-reporting. Several factors contributed to this oversight, including the pilot's fear of losing his professional flying privileges and the potential financial impact of being declared unfit to fly. Additionally, the investigation noted that German regulations lacked clear guidance on balancing medical confidentiality with public safety. The reinforced cockpit doors, designed to prevent unauthorized entry, prevented anyone from intervening before the aircraft struck the terrain.