What happened
On November 6, 2006, at approximately 02:30 UTC, a Piper PA-31T1 (registration I-POMO) crashed in Cassano di Centenaro, Italy. The aircraft was operating an IFR flight from Malta (LMML) to Milan Linate (LIML) with two occupants on board.
During the descent from FL160 to FL90, the aircraft began a gradual deviation from its assigned track. Radar observations from Milan ACC indicated that the aircraft entered a steady right-hand turn that eventually evolved into a descending spiral. The pilot failed to respond to repeated radio calls from air traffic controllers. The aircraft struck the ground at a high velocity, resulting in the deaths of both the pilot and the passenger. The impact caused the total destruction of the aircraft and a subsequent fire in the surrounding vegetation.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation examined the aircraft wreckage, radar tracks, and radio communications. Investigators analyzed the flight path, noting that the aircraft's deviation was a gradual and constant turn. The wreckage examination showed a high degree of fragmentation, consistent with a high-speed impact. Both engines were found to be in operation and producing power at the time of impact.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting he was highly qualified with approximately 3,179 flight hours. Meteorological conditions were found to be favorable, and no evidence of in-flight fire or mechanical failure of the engines or pressurization systems was identified. The investigation also noted that the accident scene had been significantly disturbed by the uncoordinated removal of wreckage prior to the investigator's arrival.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an impact with the terrain following an uncontrolled flight condition.
- The aircraft's flight path demonstrated a continuous right-wing roll and a descending spiral trajectory.
- There was no objective evidence to confirm a specific cause for the loss of control, such as structural failure, flight control malfunction, or a sudden change in the pilot's physical state.
- The aircraft was functioning normally, and the engines were producing power until the moment of impact.