2 fatalities

Fatal CFIT Incident at Innsbruck-Kranebitten Airport (HB-VAM)

Innsbruck, AustriaLanding (descent or approach)

On August 28, 1972, a Learjet 23 (registration HB-VAM) operated by Vodavia was involved in an aviation accident near Innsbruck, Austria during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered HB-VAM
Aircraft registered HB-VAM. Photo: Clive R Martin from Addlestone Surrey, England / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

During an approach to Innsbruck-Kranebitten in limited visibility, a low-altitude aircraft struck trees on a nearby mountain. The impact destroyed the plane and killed both pilots. Official findings cite controlled flight into terrain.

Incident Overview

An aviation accident occurred while an aircraft was executing an approach to Innsbruck-Kranebitten Airport under conditions of limited visibility. The event resulted in the total loss of the aircraft and the fatalities of the two individuals on board.

Sequence of Events

According to official investigation findings, the flight crew failed to recognize that the aircraft's altitude had become too low during the approach phase. Consequently, the airplane collided with trees situated on a mountain located a few kilometers from the airfield. The impact caused the destruction of the aircraft.

Casualties and Outcome

Both pilots were killed in the crash. There were no other occupants mentioned in the source material. The wreckage was found on the mountainous terrain near the airport.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain (CFIT). This classification indicates that the aircraft remained under pilot control until it impacted the ground, primarily due to a failure in altitude awareness during low-visibility conditions.