Aircraft accident near Budel-Kempen Airport

2 fatalities • Weert, Netherlands • Takeoff (climb)

A flight departing from Budel-Kempen Airport crashed in an open field near Weert after encountering cloud cover and losing stability.

What happened

On the morning of the accident, an aircraft departed from runway 21 at Budel-cap-Kempen Airport at 08:22 local time. Shortly after departing the runway, the pilot received instructions to execute a left-hand turn and was granted clearance to ascend to an altitude of 2,000 feet.

During the climb, the aircraft entered a layer of clouds. At some point during this phase of flight, the autopilot system was disconnected. Following this disengagement, the aircraft experienced a right-hand roll, which transitioned into a sharp, steep descent. The aircraft eventually struck an open field in the vicinity of Weert, situated to the east of the departure airport. The force of the impact caused the aircraft to break apart.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating in instrument meteorological conditions (clouds) at the time of the incident.
  • The disengagement of the autopilot was a critical event preceding the loss of control.
  • The crash resulted in two fatalities.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a steep descent and crashed following the disengagement of the autopilot while flying in cloud cover.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2009-10-16 Pilatus PC-12 accident near Weert, Netherlands?

A flight departing from Budel-Kempen Airport crashed in an open field near Weert after encountering cloud cover and losing stability.

Were there any fatalities in the 2009-10-16 Pilatus PC-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2009-10-16 involved a Pilatus PC-12, registration PH-RUL, operated by E. S. Management, at Weert, Netherlands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a steep descent and crashed following the disengagement of the autopilot while flying in cloud cover.

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