1 fatality

1997-04-10: Cessna 414 Chancellor (HB-LPN) — Air Turicum — Zurich-Kloten, Switzerland

Zurich-Kloten, SwitzerlandLanding (descent or approach)

On April 10, 1997, a Cessna 414 Chancellor (registration HB-LPN) operated by Air Turicum was involved in an aviation accident near Zurich-Kloten, Switzerland during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of the following factors: insufficient flight preparation; insufficient fuel supply; an emergency landing at night in a densely populated area following a double engine failure as a result of an inappropriate operation of the… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781206165Data APIEditorial standards

During a night approach to Zurich-Kloten Airport, both engines of an aircraft failed, leading to a crash into buildings. The captain was seriously injured and the copilot was killed.

Incident Overview

A flight from Colmar to Zurich, with an intermediate stop in Basel, was concluding with a night approach to runway 28 at Zurich-Kloten Airport. As the aircraft descended, both engines lost power simultaneously. Losing altitude, the aircraft struck a three-floor building and subsequently crashed onto a second building located several dozen meters further.

Injuries and Damage

The captain sustained serious injuries, while the copilot was killed in the accident. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact with the buildings.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the accident resulted from a combination of factors: insufficient flight preparation, an insufficient fuel supply, and an emergency landing at night in a densely populated area following a double engine failure caused by inappropriate operation of the fuel selector switch.