What happened
On September 14, 2009, a single-engine Europa XS was conducting a return flight from Hilversum, Netherlands, to Benesov, Czech Republic. The pilot, accompanied by a passenger, was flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). During the flight, the pilot contacted Munich Information to request weather updates, noting that conditions were deteriorating.
By 18:43, the aircraft descended from approximately 3,600 feet to 1,600 feet AMSL. The pilot informed Flight Information Services (FIS) that VFR flight could no longer be maintained and requested weather for Hof. Following this, the aircraft's flight path became erratic, navigating through valleys near Neustadt an der Orla and Triptis. The pilot ceased responding to radio calls from FIS after 18:49.
At approximately 19:15, the aircraft was observed flying very low over a field southeast of Jena-Schöngleina. Shortly thereafter, witnesses heard a loud crash. The aircraft had collided with trees, resulting in two fatalities and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined radar data, GPS records from a Garmin GPSMAP 4/6, and witness testimonies. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's flight path, the meteorological conditions in the region, and the pilot's communications with FIS. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's technical status, noting it was an experimental aircraft built from a kit and was operating without the necessary permits for German airspace. The BFU also evaluated the pilot's experience and the available landing options during the period of deteriorating visibility.
Findings
- The pilot flew into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) while attempting to maintain VFR flight.
- The aircraft was operating below the minimum safe altitude for the area.
- Weather conditions, including heavy rain and low cloud ceilings, significantly restricted visibility and made navigation difficult.
- The pilot failed to execute a timely safety landing in suitable terrain available in the valleys prior to the final approach.
- The aircraft's weight exceeded its maximum takeoff mass (MTOM) by approximately 4.8% due to the use of the reserve fuel selector.
- The pilot did not respond to suggestions from FIS to divert to nearby airports like Gera or Jena, possibly due to high workload or loss of radio contact while navigating terrain.