What happened
On September 27, 2012, two Pilatus PC-9/B aircraft were conducting a simulated attack mission against German Bundeswehr air defense units near Warbelow, Germany. The flight was part of a military exercise where the two civilian-operated aircraft flew in formation to simulate incoming threats.
During the maneuvers, the second aircraft in the formation entered a left-hand turn at a very low altitude. While flying at approximately 200 ft AGL and a high speed of roughly 270 kt, the aircraft collided with an osprey. The impact caused severe structural damage to the left wing, including the loss of a wing section and the failure of the aileron. This damage disrupted lift and caused an immediate loss of control, leading to a rapid roll and subsequent impact with a field. Both pilots were killed in the crash.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined radar data from the Control and Reporting Centre (CRC), radio communications, and eyewitness accounts from soldiers on the ground. Investigators also analyzed the wreckage and the remains of the bird involved in the collision.
Evidence from the wreckage confirmed that a 1.26 kg portion of an osprey carcass was found near the damaged left aileron. Radar data indicated that the aircraft's transponder was set to standby during the formation flight to prevent false TCAD warnings, meaning only the lead aircraft's path was fully documented via secondary radar. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's safety systems, noting that while the Martin Baker Mk11 ejection seats were armed and ready, the suddenness of the roll and the low altitude left the crew with insufficient time to initiate an ejection.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was severe structural damage to the wing caused by a bird strike.
- The aircraft was operating in a high-risk altitude band known for high bird concentrations.
- The high flight speed (270 kt) at low altitude increased the impact energy of the collision and significantly reduced the time available for the pilots to react or evade.
- The use of CS-23 category aircraft to perform high-performance military flight profiles contributed to the accident, as these aircraft have lower bird-strike tolerance compared to dedicated combat jets.
Safety action
- The BFU issued recommendation 05/2015, stating that the German Federal Aviation Office (LufABw) should ensure that civilian contractors performing target-towing services for the Bundeswehr adhere to the highest safety standards and implement risk analyses suitable for high-risk operational activities.