Ultralight Aircraft Accident at Münster Osnabrück International Airport

Incident Overview and Flight Details On October 18, 2013, a Comco Ikarus C42 B ultralight aircraft crashed at Münster Osnabrück International Airport (EDDG). The aircraft was involved in a training flight where a 51-year-old student pilot was practicing solo circuits. Witnesses reported that the aircraft touched down on the grass runway 25 and attempted to take off again. During the initial climb, the aircraft entered an abnormal steep climb and subsequently rolled over its left wing, crashing into the ground approximately 450 meters beyond the runway threshold. ## Aircraft and Personnel The aircraft, a two-seat shoulder-wing ultralight with a fixed tricycle landing gear, was manufactured by Comco Ikarus GmbH in 2000. It was powered by a Rotax 912 ULS engine and was in club ownership. The student pilot had 23 hours and 8 minutes of total flight experience, including 21 hours and 46 minutes on the specific aircraft type. The 53-year-old flight instructor was present on the ground and observed the final approach and takeoff. ## Investigation and Findings The German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU) concluded the investigation summarily under § 18 FlUUG, focusing solely on the facts. The aircraft was found with significant structural damage, including a deformed nose, a broken A-pillar, and a torn-out engine. The ballistic recovery system was not deployed. Due to the risk of accidental activation of the recovery system, a specialized bomb disposal team was required to secure the wreckage. No fire occurred, and there was no third-party damage.