Accident Overview
Just after takeoff from Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport, while in initial climb, the pilot informed ATC about engine problems and was cleared to return for an emergency landing. The pilot made a turn and elected to establish on the ILS runway 28 when the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed in a near vertical attitude in an orchard located 1,400 metres short of the runway, some three minutes after takeoff. The aircraft was totally destroyed and both occupants were killed.
Flight Details
The aircraft had departed Madrid on an aerial photography mission to Alicante. The accident occurred during the initial climb phase following takeoff. The pilot communicated engine problems to air traffic control and was given clearance to return for an emergency landing. The pilot initiated a turn and attempted to align with the ILS for runway 28. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and impacted the ground in a near-vertical attitude.
Probable Cause
Loss of control following an engine failure during initial climb. The exact cause of the engine failure could not be determined with certainty. However, the assumption that it may be the consequence of presence of water in the tanks and/or fuel lines was not ruled out.