Flight History
The aircraft departed Hanover (EDDV) at 0041 hours for a positioning flight to Munich (EDDM), intending to operate an air ambulance flight from Munich to Kiel. The crew consisted of two pilots. During climb, air traffic control cleared the aircraft direct to Munich and to climb to Flight Level (FL) 230. Radar data showed the aircraft turning south-east and reaching FL230. At 0123:45, the crew contacted Munich Radar. The controller advised that both runways were closed for snow removal, with the southern runway expected to reopen in 25–30 minutes; the crew indicated they would reduce speed. The crew reported an outside air temperature of -40°C at altitude.
Engine Failure and Shutdown
At 0133:58, the controller issued a descent clearance to FL110. During this phase, the crew encountered problems with the left engine. A system check revealed that the interstage turbine temperature (ITT) had exceeded 900°C and torque had dropped to zero. The crew performed memory items and then began the engine failure checklist. They shut down the engine based on the rapid ITT rise and torque loss; other parameters such as Ng, propeller RPM, fuel flow, oil pressure, and oil temperature were not recalled. The co-pilot radioed that they had an engine failure on the left side and requested to maintain FL150. At that time, radar indicated the aircraft at FL214. The controller asked about a frequency change, but the crew requested a minute. At 0143:22, the co-pilot reported the engine was secured. Three to five minutes later, brief strong vibrations occurred in the right engine. The crew did not attempt to restart the left engine.
Approach and Landing
After switching to Munich Approach, the crew was advised that runway 26L was available. The co-pilot declared an emergency at 0143:48, approximately 25 NM from the airport, reiterating the left engine failure. The controller cleared the aircraft for an ILS approach to runway 26L at 0149:28. Radar data showed the aircraft at FL78 with a ground speed of 210 kt. The aircraft turned onto final approach, reaching the extended centerline about 17 NM from the threshold at 5,400 ft AMSL and 120 kt. The controller noted the aircraft was south of the centerline; the crew acknowledged intercepting. The approach was flown with Blue Line Speed. About 3 NM from the threshold, after the flaps and landing gear were extended, the aircraft veered left and sank below the glidepath. The co-pilot decided to execute a go-around, but when power was increased on the right engine, no additional power was available. The aircraft lost speed, and the elevator control horn was pushed. Fire fighting vehicles positioned at the airport observed the aircraft's landing lights and a dim outline; the bank angle changed several times, then the lights disappeared. The aircraft impacted the ground approximately 100 meters short of runway 26L. The crew shut down all electrical systems and evacuated unaided.
Investigation Findings
The investigation identified several findings: the propeller was not feathered when the left engine was shut down; the speed during the single-engine approach was below the reference speed; during power increase, the aircraft veered left and became uncontrollable due to lack of rudder effectiveness; checklists were not adhered to during engine shutdown; and crew coordination was poor.