Overview
On October 20, 2013, at approximately 10:25 local time (08:25 UTC), a Cessna 172R took off from runway 11 at Krems-Langenlois airfield (LOAG). The aircraft was operated by a pilot and one passenger on a private visual flight rules (VFR) flight planned from Krems-Langenlois to Kramsach and St. Johann, then back. The flight was intended as a birthday present for the passenger. At the time of departure, dense fog covered the airfield.
Flight Sequence
The pilot and passenger arrived at the airfield around 08:30 local time. After discussing the fog, the pilot decided to proceed, stating he would climb through the fog layer. They retrieved the aircraft from a hangar, conducted a preflight inspection, and refueled with 71 liters of AVGAS. The pilot started the engine, checked instruments, and entered the planned route into the GPS. The passenger had mounted a camera on the instrument panel using a suction cup.
After engine warm-up, the pilot taxied to the holding point for runway 11 and reported ready for departure. At about 10:25 local time, he initiated takeoff. The aircraft lifted off quickly and climbed steeply, pressing the passenger into his seat. The pilot commented that they would soon be through the fog. During the climb, the camera fell onto the passenger's lap. As the passenger bent to retrieve it, he heard noises. When he looked up, the aircraft was colliding with trees and crashed into a densely wooded area northeast of the airfield.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. The passenger suffered serious injuries but survived. After the crash, the passenger freed himself from his seatbelt, heard fuel leaking from damaged tanks, and moved away from the wreckage toward a clearing. He called emergency services at about 10:25 local time. Club members from the airfield arrived and provided first aid until rescue services took him to Krems State Hospital. The aircraft was destroyed.
Wreckage
The aircraft struck several trees and came to rest in a wooded area. The wreckage distribution and condition were documented by investigators. The cockpit and instruments were examined. No fire occurred. The aircraft's ELT (emergency locator transmitter) and other systems were assessed as part of the investigation.