What happened
On November 28, 2001, a Beechcraft B95A was conducting an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight from Zagreb to Augsburg. While executing an ILS approach to the Augsburg aerodrome via the Maisach VOR, the pilot encountered difficulties maintaining the prescribed landing course. Despite assistance from air traffic control, the aircraft failed to stabilize on the approach.
During the maneuver, the aircraft descended below the required altitude of 3,500 ft by approximately 900 to 1,000 ft. Although the pilot acknowledged instructions to climb, the aircraft's flight path deviated significantly. Air traffic control subsequently instructed the pilot to abort the approach and climb to 4,000 ft, but the pilot did not respond to this final instruction. Shortly thereafter, at approximately 19:42 local time, the aircraft impacted a field near the village of Oberschneitbach, approximately 1 km south of the approach centerline. The impact was steep, and the aircraft's longitudinal axis was found pointing north, despite a southward course being recorded just prior to the crash.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined radar data, flight control records, and the wreckage of the Beechcraft B95A. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's engines, finding no evidence of power loss; the propellers showed deformation consistent with the engines being under power at impact. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data, which indicated moderate icing conditions were expected between 2,500 ft and FL 130. The aircraft's de-icing system was found to be in the off position, and while the nitrogen reservoir for the wing and tail boots could not be verified, the pilot had not activated the system.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of control due to an aerodynamic stall during the ILS approach.
- The aircraft lost 900 ft of altitude in just 17 seconds, a descent rate of approximately 3,175 ft/min, which is characteristic of a stall, potentially caused by ice accumulation.
- The aircraft likely entered a spin or steep spiral prior to impact, as evidenced by the change in heading from south to north.
- The pilot may have been unaware of ice accumulation, as the de-icing system was not engaged.
- The aircraft was overloaded at departure by 64 kg, though it was within weight limits at the time of the accident.
- All 4 occupants perished in the crash due to the high energy of the impact.