Casualties unknown

Accident Involving Flight Design CT-SW at Pula Airport on 31 March 2023 (D-MVPP)

HR

On March 31, 2023, a FDCT (registration D-MVPP) operated by Private was involved in an aviation accident near HR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stalling of the aircraft during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Air, Maritime and Railway Traffic Accident Investigation Agency of Croatia (AIN).

Sourcesthe Air, Maritime and Railway Traffic Accident Investigation Agency of Croatia (AIN)Primary reportUpdated 2026-10-18Data APIEditorial standards

On 31 March 2023, a Flight Design CT-SW aircraft (D-MVPP) crashed during takeoff from Pula Airport. Both occupants died. The investigation concluded the cause was a stall during takeoff.

Background

The aircraft, a Flight Design CT-SW registered as D-MVPP, arrived at Pula Airport (LDPL) from Klagenfurt Airport (LOWK) on 24 March 2023 at 13:45 local time. No problems were noted during arrival. The pilot inquired about MOGAS fuel but was informed the airport did not supply that type. The pilot decided to source fuel elsewhere.

On 25 March 2023, around 15:15 local time, the pilot and a female companion brought two 25-liter fuel canisters through airport security and refueled the aircraft in the presence of ground handling staff and a firefighter. No defects were observed.

Sequence of Events

On 31 March 2023, in the morning, the pilot and passenger arrived to prepare for a flight to Portorož Airport (LJPZ) in Slovenia. Airport staff noted they spent an unusually long time around the aircraft before departure.

After receiving takeoff clearance, the aircraft began its takeoff roll. Shortly after becoming airborne, during the climb phase, the aircraft turned left and crashed onto the grassy area beside the runway. A fire erupted immediately upon impact, destroying most of the aircraft.

Both occupants died in the accident.

Investigation Findings

The investigation determined that the aircraft stalled during takeoff. No safety recommendations were issued by the investigating agency.

Cause

The cause of the accident was a stall of the aircraft during takeoff.

Probable cause

Stalling of the aircraft during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Mar 2023 FDCT accident near HR?

On 31 March 2023, a Flight Design CT-SW aircraft (D-MVPP) crashed during takeoff from Pula Airport. Both occupants died. The investigation concluded the cause was a stall during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Mar 2023 involved a FDCT, registration D-MVPP, operated by Private, at HR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Stalling of the aircraft during takeoff.