Incident Overview
On November 25, 2015, a Piper Aircraft Corporation PA 28-180 suffered a fatal accident near Lindewitt, Germany. The single-engine aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with one person on board when it collided with a group of trees and impacted the ground.
Flight Details and Pilot Background
The flight departed from Flugplatz Wyk auf Föhr (EDXY) at 09:24 local time, destined for Flugplatz Grube (EDHB). The pilot, a 49-year-old holder of a Private Pilot License (PPL(A)) obtained in August 2014, had logged at least 66 hours on the PA 28-180 type. Although he held a valid license, no current medical certificate was found aboard; however, an aviation physician later confirmed his fitness to fly. The aircraft, manufactured in 1972 with serial number 28-7205318, had a total airframe time of 3,502 hours.
Weather and Operational Context
Meteorological data indicated challenging conditions. While the departure point reported clear skies, the destination area faced restricted visibility due to an occlusion system bringing moist air and low clouds. The pilot informed the flight controller at Wyk that he intended to deviate northward toward Flensburg to avoid potential visibility restrictions on the direct route. Radar data showed the aircraft lost altitude while circling after approximately 13 minutes of cruise.
Accident Sequence and Findings
Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft make several turns near the ground before striking trees in a hilltop area used as a riding ground. The impact caused the aircraft to break apart, with debris scattered over an 180-meter path. The pilot was extracted from the burning wreckage by first responders but died shortly after at the hospital. Autopsy results attributed death to burn trauma, with no evidence of alcohol or drug involvement. The engine showed minimal fire damage, and fuel was present in the carburetor, suggesting a mechanical failure was not the primary cause.