No fatalities

2020-12-04: Cessna 303 Crusader (HB-LUV) — 303 Flyers — Annecy-Meythet, France

Annecy-Meythet, FranceLanding (descent or approach)

On December 4, 2020, a Cessna 303 Crusader (registration HB-LUV) operated by 303 Flyers was involved in an aviation accident near Annecy-Meythet, France during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the result of the combination of the following factors: - The pilot initiated the descent too late, causing the aircraft to approach well above the glide, - The pilot continued the approach with an unstabilized airplane nor in speed nor on… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781190239Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane on a private flight from Marseille-Provence to Annecy overran runway 04 after landing halfway down at 119 knots, resulting in serious injury to the pilot and minor injuries to two passengers. The aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Overview

On a private flight from Marseille-Provence Airport to Annecy, a twin-engine airplane was cruising at FL110 when the pilot was informed about destination weather conditions with a braking coefficient considered as medium due to a wet runway. The pilot received clearance to land on runway 04.

Sequence of Events

The pilot continued the approach but landed halfway down the runway at a speed of 119 knots. After touchdown, the pilot initiated the braking procedure. The airplane experienced aquaplaning and was unable to stop within the remaining distance. It overran the runway, impacted an embankment, went through a fence, and came to rest on a road.

Injuries and Damage

The two passengers, aged 26 and 28, sustained slight injuries. The pilot, aged 70, was seriously injured. The aircraft was destroyed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the accident resulted from a combination of factors: the pilot initiated the descent too late, causing the aircraft to approach well above the glide; the pilot continued the approach with an unstabilized airplane in both speed and glide; the airplane landed halfway down the runway, reducing the landing distance available; the speed upon touchdown was 119 knots, 30 knots above the recommended speed in the flight manual; the braking coefficient was medium due to a wet runway; and the airplane suffered aquaplaning when braking was initiated.