What happened
Prior to the arrival of the flight, ground personnel at Tingwall prepared the airstrip by activating runway lights and readying fire services. The pilot had previously requested weather information, receiving reports of winds between 090° and 120° at 20 knots, with light drizzle and good visibility. Radar tracking indicated the aircraft type followed a path over Lerwick and Kebister Ness before turning south to establish a downwind leg for Runway 02.
During the initial approach, the aircraft experienced moderate turbulence. While attempting to position for the final approach, the aircraft was pushed off the centerline by gusty easterly winds. Because the aircraft was positioned to the left of the required path, the pilot initiated a go-around, climbing to 550 feet to re-enter the downwind leg. During this second attempt, the pilot extended the downwind leg by roughly 800 metres.
As the aircraft transitioned from the downwind leg to the final approach, it executed a very steep bank. Witnesses and passengers noted that the aircraft appeared to be descending continuously throughout this turn. During the maneuver, the aircraft experienced a sudden drop in altitude. The aircraft struck the ground shortly after this maneuver, resulting in one fatality involving the pilot and injuries to the remaining crew members.
Findings
- The aircraft was subject to gusty easterly winds that displaced it from the intended approach centerline.
- The second approach attempt involved a highly aggressive and steep banking maneuver.
- The aircraft was observed to be in a continuous descent during the turn onto the final approach leg.