Fatal aircraft accident near Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport

2 fatalities • Madrid-Cuatro Vientos, Spain • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed during an emergency return to Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport following engine issues shortly after takeoff.

What happened

During an aerial photography mission traveling from Madrid to Alicante, an aircraft experienced mechanical difficulties shortly after departing from Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport. While performing the initial climb, the pilot notified air traffic control of engine-related problems. In response to the emergency, the pilot was granted permission to return to the airport for an unplanned landing.

As the pilot attempted to intercept the ILS for runway 28, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent. The plane struck an orchard approximately 1,400 meters before the runway threshold, impacting the ground in a near-vertical position. The accident occurred roughly three minutes after the initial departure. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and both fatalities.

Findings

  • The flight was interrupted by engine problems identified during the climb phase.
  • The aircraft was unable to maintain controlled flight while attempting to re-establish its approach to the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered an engine failure during the initial climb, leading to an uncontrolled descent during an emergency return attempt.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-10-31 Cessna 401 accident near Madrid-Cuatro Vientos, Spain?

An aircraft crashed during an emergency return to Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport following engine issues shortly after takeoff.

Were there any fatalities in the 1999-10-31 Cessna 401 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-10-31 involved a Cessna 401, registration EC-DEQ, operated by Helibérica, at Madrid-Cuatro Vientos, Spain.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft suffered an engine failure during the initial climb, leading to an uncontrolled descent during an emergency return attempt.

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