What happened
On June 19, 2021, a Hawker Beechcraft V-35 Bonanza, registration I-BMBN, was conducting a recreational flight from Milan Bresso to Padova. After approximately one hour of flight, the pilot attempted to land on runway 04 at Padova Airport. During the landing sequence, the aircraft experienced several bounces on the runway. Following the final bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around.
During the initial climb phase, the aircraft's right wing struck a tree located at the edge of the airport perimeter. The impact caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the right and crash onto an asphalt area near the airport's northeast entrance. The impact was nearly vertical, with the engine at full power. The aircraft caught fire upon impact, and the pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation examined the flight sequence, the aircraft's mechanical condition, and the environmental factors present at the time of the accident. The investigation reviewed the pilot's extensive flight history, noting significant experience dating back to 1958. The aircraft's maintenance records showed the plane was in compliance with all regulations, with recent inspections completed shortly before the event.
Investigators also analyzed the meteorological conditions, noting a high heat index. The temperature was 29°C with 62% humidity, resulting in a perceived temperature (Humidex) of approximately 37°C. Additionally, the investigation looked into the airport's emergency response capabilities, finding that the airport's primary fire rescue unit was unable to effectively contain the post-crash fire due to equipment and procedural inefficiencies.
Findings
- The pilot's approach and landing were unstable, characterized by an airspeed significantly higher than the values specified in the Pilot's Operating Handbook.
- Due to a misunderstanding of traffic information provided by the airfield information unit, the pilot's path interfered with a preceding aircraft, necessitating a wide maneuvering loop to realign with the runway.
- The loss of control following the wing strike was the direct cause of the accident, triggered by an improper go-around configuration and parameters.
- The investigation concluded that the pilot's decision-making and situational awareness may have been compromised by heat stress caused by the extreme perceived temperature of 37°C during a low-altitude flight.