Incident Overview
A single-engine military aircraft participating in a military exercise departed Payerne Air Force Base on a liaison flight to Sankt Stephan in the canton of Bern. While descending to Sankt Stephan Airfield in marginal weather conditions, the aircraft struck the ground and came to rest against a tall tree in hilly terrain near Boltigen, approximately 14 kilometers north of the airfield.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft was on a liaison flight between two air force bases. As it approached Sankt Stephan, the pilot initiated a descent in conditions described as marginal weather. The aircraft impacted terrain, coming to rest against a tree. The collision and subsequent post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain. No technical anomalies were found on the aircraft. The investigation noted that the aircraft was operating under military exercise conditions.