What happened
On May 24, 2001, a Beech B 36 TC was performing a private flight from Heringsdorf to Berlin-Tempelhof. During the final approach to runway 27R, the aircraft experienced a sudden engine failure. Radio communications from the pilot indicated a critical situation, stating, "have a problem we will crash down," followed by a Mayday call reporting that the motor was out.
Radar data showed that following the engine failure, the aircraft lost approximately 700 feet in altitude over a 48-second period. The aircraft's flight path took it away from the runway centerline and toward a densely populated residential area. Shortly before impact, the right wing struck a tree, causing the aircraft to bank sharply. The plane then struck the gable wall of a five-story residential building at the level of the third floor, creating a large hole in the structure. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a courtyard, landing on the roof of a wooden garden shed and catching fire. The impact and subsequent intense fire destroyed the aircraft and caused damage to the residential building and the garden shed. The pilot and the passenger sustained two fatal injuries.
The investigation
The BFU investigation focused on the cause of the engine failure and the circumstances leading to the crash. Investigators examined the engine, which showed evidence of intense, hot combustion. While the mechanical components of the crankcase showed no defects, the high degree of fire damage prevented a definitive determination of whether the overheating was caused by an incorrect manual mixture adjustment or a fault in the fuel system. However, the combustion patterns ruled out a simple fuel exhaustion caused by an incorrect tank selection.
Investigators also reviewed radar data, radio transcripts, and witness statements. Witnesses confirmed the engine failure and noted that the landing gear was extended during the final approach. The investigation also considered the aircraft's flight configuration and the available terrain for an emergency landing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an engine failure during the final approach, the specific cause of which could not be determined with certainty due to fire damage.
- At the time of the engine failure, the aircraft was at an altitude from which it was impossible to reach the runway via a glide slope.
- There was no suitable terrain available for an emergency landing in the immediate vicinity of the approach path.
- The aircraft was under the control of the pilot until the moment of impact.