Fatal Europa XS Crash Near Jena-Schöngleina

Incident Overview and Aircraft Details On 14 September 2009, a single-engine Europa XS aircraft crashed near the Jena-Schöngleina airfield, resulting in the deaths of two occupants. The aircraft, a low-wing, two-seat model with dual controls, was built in the Czech Republic by G. J. Vicherek from a kit supplied by Europa Aircraft Co. Ltd. It was certified for experimental VFR operations in 2006. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate restricted its operation to Czech territory, and no application or permission was on file for its entry into or operation within German airspace. ## Flight Progression and Final Moments The pilot, a 42-year-old Czech national, departed Hilversum, Netherlands, at 15:15 local time for Benesov, Czech Republic, accompanied by his 45-year-old brother. The pilot had previously traveled to Amsterdam for a computer trade fair. During the flight, the pilot contacted Munich Information for weather updates at Karlovy Vary and Erfurt. By 18:46, the pilot informed Fluginformationsdienst (FIS) that he could not continue under VFR and requested weather for Hof. FIS suggested Gera or Jena, but no further radio contact was established. ## Weather and Search Operations Weather conditions deteriorated significantly, with rain and low cloud cover. At 19:00, ground visibility at Jena-Schöngleina was under 200 meters with an overcast sky. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying very low and disappearing into fog near Schöngleina. The aircraft was last recorded on radar at approximately 1,100 to 1,200 feet AMSL. A loud crash was heard shortly after 19:15. The aircraft collided with trees, destroying the airframe and causing minor forest damage. A search involving 150 personnel located the crash site at 23:55.