Moravan Z 226 crashes during aerobatic maneuvers near Alkersleben

Casualties unknown • Alkersleben, DE

A Moravan Z 226 crashed into trees and power lines during low-altitude aerobatic maneuvers, resulting in two serious injuries and the destruction of the aircraft.

What happened

On September 16, 2007, a Moravan Z 226 participated in an aerobatic display at an airshow near Alkersleben, Germany. Following the conclusion of the official program, the aircraft was observed by several witnesses performing maneuvers between the villages of Elleben and Osthausen. Witnesses, including experienced aerobatic pilots, noted the aircraft performing a roll at an altitude of less than 200 meters, which led into a steep right-hand turn with a significant loss of altitude.

The aircraft's main landing gear first made contact with the ground approximately 10 meters before a line of trees. This initial contact caused the aircraft to lift again, subsequently striking the trees and severing a power line. The aircraft then traveled approximately 72 meters from the initial contact point before coming to rest upside down in an adjacent field. The impact caused the destruction of the aircraft and damaged local infrastructure, including a power cable and property on the ground. Two persons sustained serious injuries in the accident.

The investigation

The BFU investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the flight path. Investigators analyzed the wreckage and found that all control surfaces were properly connected and functional. No evidence of foreign object damage or mechanical failure affecting the controls was found. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's statement, which claimed an attempt at an emergency landing due to impaired aileron control; however, physical evidence and witness accounts contradicted this, showing the aircraft was in a level flight attitude without a significant sideslip at the moment of the first ground contact.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the accident was that the aircraft unintentionally made contact with the ground during low-altitude maneuvers following a roll.
  • The subsequent collision with trees and power lines caused the aircraft to overturn and sustain heavy damage.
  • There were no technical malfunctions or mechanical failures identified in the aircraft's flight controls.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the aircraft making unintended contact with the ground during low-altitude aerobatic maneuvers, which subsequently led to a collision with trees and power lines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-09-16 Moravan Z 226 accident near Alkersleben, DE?

A Moravan Z 226 crashed into trees and power lines during low-altitude aerobatic maneuvers, resulting in two serious injuries and the destruction of the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-09-16 involved a Moravan Z 226, at Alkersleben, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the aircraft making unintended contact with the ground during low-altitude aerobatic maneuvers, which subsequently led to a collision with trees and power lines.

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