What happened
On October 2, 2022, a Cessna F172M, registration I-EDUK, was performing a recreational flight from the Curtatone aerodrome in Mantova, Italy. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and three passengers, was returning from a flight toward the Alps. During the approach, the pilot attempted two landings, both of which resulted in go-arounds (balked landings).
During the second attempt, the aircraft entered a left turn following the missed approach. The aircraft subsequently lost control and impacted a field approximately 260 meters from the aerodrome's eastern fence. The impact destroyed the aircraft and resulted in one fatality and two serious injuries among the occupants.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation analyzed flight data retrieved from an onboard GPS tracking system (Viaair). The investigation revealed that during the first approach, the aircraft was flying at speeds exceeding the recommended limits. On the second approach, the aircraft was also traveling at high speeds.
Physical examination of the wreckage showed that the flap actuator was in a position indicating the flaps were deployed. The investigation also noted that the engine was producing power at the time of impact. The aircraft's flight path showed a steep descent during the final stages of the second approach.
Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft was flying at excessive speeds during both landing attempts. On the second attempt, the aircraft's flight path transitioned into a steep descent. The investigation concluded that the pilot's management of the aircraft's energy and configuration contributed to the loss of control.
While the aircraft was flying at high speeds, the investigation found that the aircraft was also in a configuration that, combined with the pilot's actions, led to the stall and subsequent impact.