What happened
On April 6, 2003, a Partenavia P.66C, registration I-IACT, was performing a VFR approach to Lugo di Romagna airport after departing from Bologna. During the landing phase on runway 03, the aircraft was struck by strong wind gusts, causing it to bounce on the runway and veer to the left. In an attempt to recover, the pilot applied full power for a go-around, resulting in a heavily pitched-up attitude. This maneuver led to an asymmetric stall at an extremely low altitude. The aircraft struck the ground near the runway threshold, impacting a parking area and hitting several parked cars. The impact was followed by a massive fire that destroyed the airframe. The pilot, the sole occupant, was killed in the accident.
The investigation
The ANSV examination focused on the environmental conditions and the flight sequence. Witnesses reported that the pilot had been informed of strong winds, with gusts reaching 15 to 17 knots from the east/northeast. Evidence from the wreckage showed the aircraft's flaps were set at approximately 22 degrees. Technical inspections of the engine and airframe revealed no mechanical failures or technical issues contributing to the crash. The investigation also noted that the pilot had previously flown to this airport and held a valid PPL(A).
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an asymmetric stall triggered during a low-altitude go-around.
- Significant wind gusts destabilized the aircraft during the initial landing attempt.
- The pilot's decision to attempt a go-around following the runway bounce led to the unrecoverable stall due to the proximity to the ground.
- Environmental factors, specifically strong and gusty winds, played a critical role in the aircraft's loss of control.