1 fatality

Twin-Engine Aircraft Crashes into Lake Balaton, Copilot Killed (HA-YFA)

Lake Balaton, HungaryFlight

On August 6, 1977, a Let L-410 (registration HA-YFA) operated by Air Service Hungary - Repülögépes Szolgálat was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Balaton, Hungary in flight. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft on an aerial photography mission struck the water surface of Lake Balaton and sank, killing the copilot. Three other occupants were rescued.

Incident Overview

A twin-engine aircraft departed Budaörs Airport in the morning for an aerial photography mission over the region, carrying two photographers and two pilots. The flight initially cruised at an altitude of 5,000 meters before the crew descended to 3,000 meters and then to 1,500 meters. Air traffic control informed the crew about ongoing skydiving operations in the area.

Descent and Impact

While approaching Lake Balaton, the captain reduced the aircraft's altitude to minimums. At a height of approximately one meter above the lake surface, the landing gear struck the water. The aircraft subsequently crashed into the lake and sank about 1,500 meters offshore.

Rescue and Recovery

Three occupants were rescued from the accident, while the copilot was killed. The wreckage was recovered from the lake one day after the incident.

Investigation

Authorities have not yet released a probable cause for the accident.