Accident Overview
On 3 December 2015, at approximately 18:50 local time, a Piper PA-28R-201 (registration OE-DYM) crashed on a wooded slope near Mengeš, Slovenia, about 8 km from the runway threshold of Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJLJ). The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot, a 62-year-old Austrian national, was fatally injured. A medium-sized dog being transported in the cabin also died.
Flight Details
The pilot filed an IFR flight plan from Vienna International Airport (LOWW) to Ljubljana, intending an ILS approach to runway 30. The Austrian air traffic control accepted the plan and forwarded it to Slovenia Air Traffic Control (KZPS). At 18:26, the pilot established contact with Slovenian control upon entering Slovenian airspace and requested weather information for landing. He then descended from 5,000 feet to join the ILS approach. At 18:43, he began descending to the DOL (Dolsko) waypoint at 4,000 feet. At 18:45, the aircraft overflew the DOL navigational aid and continued on a heading of 270° for radar vectoring, starting its approach to the runway.
Approximately 15 km from the runway, the pilot reported problems. At 18:50, the aircraft disappeared from radar. Search and rescue was initiated. Police and civil protection officials found wreckage on a wooded slope.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-28R-201, serial number 28R-7837072, privately owned. Its airworthiness certificate was valid until 2 September 2016. Maximum takeoff mass was 1,247 kg. The engine, propeller, and all equipment were completely destroyed.
The pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL(A)) with instrument rating (IR) for single-engine and multi-engine piston aircraft, issued on 21 July 2004 and valid until 31 February 2016. His last proficiency check was on 22 February 2015. He held a Class 1 Medical Certificate valid until 11 August 2015.
Wreckage and Site
The aircraft first impacted trees with the left wing, which separated from the fuselage. The landing gear was extended and locked. The cockpit, fuselage, and tail surfaces were crushed and unrecognizable. Instruments were destroyed beyond identification. The engine and propeller were found at the lower end of a 120-meter debris path. Minor oil and fuel spillage occurred. No other property damage was reported.
Meteorology and Communications
Weather data were obtained from the Slovenian Environment Agency (ARSO) and other airports. The pilot received weather information from ATC. Radio communications were established and recorded. The pilot reported difficulties prior to the crash.
Probable Cause
Not specified in the provided source excerpt.