What happened
On July 20, 2021, at 12:23 UTC, a Piper PA-28-140, registration I-SVBA, was conducting a local VFR flight departing from Bari Palese Airport. The aircraft was carrying a pilot in command and a passenger, who was also a flight instructor. While flying over an olive grove in the Coccaro district of Fasano, the aircraft was observed by an eyewitness flying at an extremely low altitude. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft struck medium-voltage power lines, causing them to sever, and plummeted to the ground. The impact resulted in the catastrophic destruction of the aircraft and the two fatalities of both occupants.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation examined the flight path, the aircraft's mechanical condition, and the crew's actions. Analysis of the GPS data revealed that the aircraft began losing altitude during the final three minutes of flight. The track showed the aircraft performing two 360-degree turns that resulted in significant altitude loss, with speeds dropping near the stall threshold.
Investigators found that the aircraft's configuration at impact was inconsistent with standard emergency procedures. Specifically, the flaps were physically deflected at approximately 10 degrees despite the cockpit lever being set to 0. Furthermore, the aircraft failed to maintain the 80 MPH glide speed recommended by the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) for engine failure scenarios. The investigation also noted a lack of radio communications to Air Traffic Control during the final descent, which was unexpected given that two experienced pilots were on board.
Mechanical examinations of the engine and accessories revealed no technical failures capable of causing a loss of power. While the investigation could not definitively confirm the exact sequence of events, two hypotheses were considered: a simulated engine failure maneuver gone wrong, or an unmanaged technical issue. However, the investigation also noted that an autopsy of the passenger-pilot revealed a significant cardiac pathology, suggesting a potential medical emergency may have occurred in flight.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a loss of control in flight leading to the collision with electrical lines.
- The aircraft's flight path indicated several maneuvers, including steep turns, that led to a loss of energy and altitude.
- The crew failed to follow established emergency procedures, such as maintaining appropriate glide speed and communicating with ATC.
- A significant cardiac condition in the passenger-pilot was identified as a potential contributing factor that could have led to a loss of situational awareness or a sudden medical event.