What happened
On August 2, 2011, a DR 400/180 aircraft departed from the Günzburg-Donauried (EDMG) airfield, bound for Strausberg. The flight was intended to be a VFR mission, with the pilot planning subsequent stops in Berlin and Altenburg. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft performed a 30-degree right turn during its climb. This was followed by a left-hand circling maneuver in a descent. Approximately 56 seconds after takeoff, the aircraft struck a meadow at a high rate of descent and significant bank angle, resulting in two fatalities.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the aircraft's flight path using GPS data from a Garmin 496 unit. The data revealed that the climb ended at 269 feet, followed by a period of altitude gain and then a transition into a descent at 44 seconds into the flight. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data from the German Weather Service (DWD) and interviewed witnesses, including airfield personnel. The investigation found that while the pilot had received a weather briefing explicitly warning of fog in the Danube lowlands, the pilot's personal observation at his residence suggested clear skies. However, radar and witness accounts confirmed that fog or high fog was present at the airfield, with visibility reported as low as 70 meters.
Findings
- The pilot likely encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) shortly after takeoff.
- The pilot likely attempted a turning maneuver to regain visual contact with the ground but lost control due to spatial disorientation.
- The pilot was flying under significant time pressure to meet a business appointment.
- The pilot lacked the necessary instrument rating required for flying in IMC.
- The flight plan was prepared two days in advance and did not include updated weather data.