What happened
On March 16, 2021, a private pilot was conducting a visual flight rules (VFR) flight departing from the Burg Feuerstein airfield in a Cessna 177 B. After completing a local circuit and flying northwest toward Bamberg and Würzburg, the pilot turned south to return to the airfield.
During the return flight, the pilot contacted the airfield manager to inquire about weather conditions. The manager warned of a heavy snow shower and significantly reduced visibility, describing the conditions as extremely poor. Despite the warning and the suggestion to divert to alternative airports like Herzogenaurach or Nuremberg, the pilot expressed an intention to attempt a landing at Burg Feuerstein.
As the aircraft approached the airfield, the pilot requested information regarding a lit lantern to assist with visual references, suggesting the airfield was becoming difficult to identify. GPS data and witness accounts indicate the aircraft performed several steep turns and circling maneuvers at low altitude. During the final approach to runway 26, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled flight state, pitching up steeply before plunging into a kindergarten grounds near the castle. The impact resulted in the death of the pilot and the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the aircraft's flight path using GPS data from a traffic sensor, radar data, and meteorological reports from the German Meteorological Service (DWD). The investigation also reviewed radio communications between the pilot and the airfield manager.
Technical analysis of the wreckage showed no evidence of mechanical failure or engine issues. The investigation focused on the meteorological conditions, specifically the impact of the snow shower on visibility and the cloud ceiling, as well as the pilot's decision-making process and situational awareness during the approach.