What happened
On September 21, 2025, at approximately 17:10 local time, a Cessna 150L, registration ES-ECJ, was involved in an aircraft accident during a takeoff attempt in Voka, Ida-Virumaa. The flight, which began from a manicured field in Matka, was intended to include a low approach at a grass field in Voka before proceeding to Jõhvi Airport.
Upon arriving at the Voka site, the pilot decided to land on the grass strip rather than performing the planned low approach. Following a turnaround at the northern end of the field, the pilot initiated a takeoff roll toward the northwest. During the acceleration phase, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient airspeed and altitude. As the aircraft reached the end of the runway, it struck hay bales located at the edge of the field. The impact caused the aircraft's nose gear to strike the obstacles, leading the propeller and engine to strike the ground. The aircraft subsequently overturned approximately 10 meters from the point of impact. The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the passenger escaped without significant injury.
The investigation
The Estonian Safety Investigation Bureau (OJK) conducted an examination of the accident site, technical documentation, and pilot statements. The investigation focused on the aircraft's performance capabilities relative to the takeoff conditions.
Investigators determined that the aircraft was operating significantly above its maximum takeoff weight. With a basic empty weight of 490.9 kg, a fuel load of 80 kg, and a passenger/pilot weight of approximately 205 kg, the takeoff weight was calculated at 765.9 kg—exceeding the manufacturer's maximum allowable takeoff weight of 725.7 kg by over 40 kg. Additionally, the investigation noted that the aircraft's airworthiness certificate had expired on September 3, 2025.
Findings
- The aircraft was operated in an overweight configuration, exceeding the maximum takeoff weight by approximately 30 to 40 kg.
- The pilot utilized a flap setting of 10 degrees, which was increased to 20 degrees shortly before impact, rather than the standard 0-degree setting for such operations.
- Environmental factors included a light tailwind component of approximately 2.4 m/s and a grass runway surface, which increases required takeoff distance compared to paved surfaces.
- The takeoff roll was insufficient to clear the 1.2-meter high hay bales at the end of the 435-meter strip due to the combination of excessive weight, tailwind, and flap configuration.
- The aircraft suffered severe structural damage, including a broken nose gear, broken propeller, and separation of the engine from the airframe.