What happened
On June 26, 2011, at approximately 15:30, a pilot departed from Nordholz-Spieka for a private recreational flight, intending to visit Oldenburg-Hatten before returning to his origin. The flight involved a Roland Aircraft Zodiac Z 602 XL ultralight aircraft.
At around 16:30, the pilot contacted Conneforde airfield via radio to announce an approach, preceded by a low-level flyover. Witnesses observed the aircraft performing a high-speed pass at an altitude of only 3 to 5 meters above the runway. At the end of the runway, the aircraft climbed steeply. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft entered a northward turn at an altitude of approximately 200 to 250 meters, where it began to bank sharply to the right and impacted the ground.
The impact occurred on a meadow approximately 540 meters north of the Conneforde airfield. The aircraft struck the marshy ground with a high longitudinal pitch and a 60-degree right bank. The impact destroyed the aircraft and resulted in the fatal injury of the pilot.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the flight sequence, the aircraft's condition, and the pilot's medical status. The investigation established that the aircraft, which was in private ownership and had 16 total operating hours, was fueled with 44 liters of fuel at the time of departure. Meteorological conditions were reported as CAVOK (clear skies, visibility, ceiling, and no significant weather).
Medical examinations were conducted to determine the cause of the sudden change in flight path. The investigation focused on the pilot's physical state during the final moments of the flight.
Findings
- The aircraft struck the ground with significant force, embedding the engine block approximately 2 meters into the soft, boggy soil.
- The pilot's medical examination revealed that he had suffered a heart attack.
- This medical event likely resulted in the pilot's sudden incapacity, leading to the uncontrolled flight path and subsequent crash.