What happened
On June 10, 2003, at approximately 14:38 UTC, a Diamond DA20 operated by a local flying club departed from Salzburg-Maxglan Airport for a training flight. The flight was being conducted by a flight instructor with a student pilot on board.
Shortly after takeoff from runway 16, as the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 300 feet during the initial climb, the crew experienced engine sputtering accompanied by intense vibrations, light smoke development, and a smell similar to smoldering. The engine subsequently lost power, forcing the aircraft into a descent.
Due to the low altitude, the pilot opted for an emergency landing in a field southeast of the airport perimeter. Upon touchdown, the aircraft struck a drainage ditch running perpendicular to the direction of travel. The impact caused the aircraft to overturn and come to rest on its back. The crew sustained light injuries and managed to egress the cockpit by breaking the Plexiglas canopy.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the Austrian Federal Safety Investigation Board (SUB) to determine the cause of the engine malfunction and subsequent landing accident. The investigation reconstructed the sequence of events using statements from the crew and witnesses, as well as findings from public safety services. The investigation focused on the engine's loss of power and the impact with the terrain.