Aircraft accident in the Weser River near Bremerhaven

8 fatalities • Bremerhaven, Germany • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the Weser River shortly after departing Bremerhaven for Wangerooge Island, resulting in nine fatalities.

What happened

Following a 30-minute delay caused by snowfall at the airport, a twin engine aircraft prepared for a flight from Bremerhaven to Wangerooge Island. Before the flight commenced, the pilot performed manual de-icing procedures, clearing snow from the wings, the leading edge, and the windshield.

Upon departing from runway 34, the aircraft began its ascent but struggled to gain altitude. The plane reached an approximate height of 195 feet before experiencing a stall. The aircraft subsequently impacted the surface of the Weser River. A nearby ferry crew responded immediately to the crash site, managing to rescue one passenger. However, the accident resulted in eight fatalities among the other occupants.

Findings

  • The flight was delayed due to active snow showers at the departure location.
  • The aircraft experienced a stall during the initial climb phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a stall during a low-altitude climb following a departure in snowy conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-12-26 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Bremerhaven, Germany?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the Weser River shortly after departing Bremerhaven for Wangerooge Island, resulting in nine fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2001-12-26 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-12-26 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration D-IAAI, operated by BAL Bremerhaven Airline, at Bremerhaven, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a stall during a low-altitude climb following a departure in snowy conditions.

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