5 fatalities

Takeoff Crash After Frost Contamination and Overweight Conditions Kills Five (D-IMMA)

Bologna, ItalyTakeoff (climb)

On March 3, 2005, a Cessna 340 (registration D-IMMA) operated by Private Germany was involved in an aviation accident near Bologna, Italy during takeoff. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew failed to proceed to a proper inspection prior to departure and did not realize that the aircraft (wings, tail and fuselage) was contaminated with frost. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the Italian National Flight Safety Agency (ANSV)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed after takeoff from runway 12, colliding with a fence and embankment. The crew failed to remove frost from the aircraft, and weight exceeded MTOW with CofG near limit. All five occupants died.

Accident Summary

A twin-engine aircraft departed runway 12 at a speed of 112 knots after a longer-than-normal takeoff roll. After rotation, the aircraft encountered difficulties gaining sufficient height. It successively collided with the airport perimeter fence and an embankment located approximately 150 meters from the threshold of runway 30. The aircraft crashed and was totally destroyed by a post-crash fire. All five occupants were killed.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the crew failed to conduct a proper pre-departure inspection and did not realize that the aircraft's wings, tail, and fuselage were contaminated with frost. This contamination altered the aerodynamic properties, preventing the aircraft from achieving adequate climb after rotation. Additionally, the aircraft's total weight was above the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) and the center of gravity was near the permissible limit, which were considered contributing factors.

Probable cause

The crew failed to proceed to a proper inspection prior to departure and did not realize that the aircraft (wings, tail and fuselage) was contaminated with frost. This caused the aircraft to be unable to gain sufficient height after rotation as the aerodynamic properties were altered. Contributing factors included the aircraft being above MTOW and CofG near the permissible limit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Mar 2005 Cessna 340 accident near Bologna, Italy?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed after takeoff from runway 12, colliding with a fence and embankment. The crew failed to remove frost from the aircraft, and weight exceeded MTOW with CofG near limit. All five occupants died.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Mar 2005 Cessna 340 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Mar 2005 involved a Cessna 340, registration D-IMMA, operated by Private Germany, at Bologna, Italy.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to proceed to a proper inspection prior to departure and did not realize that the aircraft (wings, tail and fuselage) was contaminated with frost. This caused the aircraft to be unable to gain sufficient height after rotation as the aerodynamic properties were altered. Contributing factors included…