Overview
On a local sightseeing flight from Midden Zeeland aerodrome, a twin-engine airplane carrying nine passengers and a pilot crashed into the Veerse Lake near Haringvreter Island. The accident resulted in fatalities and serious injuries among the occupants.
Accident Details
The airplane departed Midden Zeeland aerodrome for a local sightseeing flight. During the en route portion of the flight, the aircraft entered a fog bank. While in the fog, the pilot suffered spatial disorientation. Moments later, as the airplane emerged from the fog, it was observed in a 45° left bank. The pilot lost control of the aircraft, and it subsequently crashed into the Veerse Lake off Haringvreter Island.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and two passengers were killed in the crash. The remaining seven occupants sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact with the water.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be a loss of control in flight after the pilot suffered spatial disorientation while flying in fog. It was further reported that the pilot was not instrument rated, which is relevant to the inability to maintain control in reduced visibility conditions.