What happened
A twin engine airplane was performing a scheduled cargo mission originating in Helsinki. The route included several intermediate stops at Mikkeli, Varkaus, and Savonlinna, with the aircraft transporting 578 kilograms of newspapers. On the final leg of the journey, the flight departed Savonlinna Airport at 12:13 local time, aiming for an arrival in Joensuu at approximately 12:35.
Following a review of the most recent meteorological reports for Joensuu, the pilot began a descent under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). While performing the approach to runway 10, smoke was observed emanating from the aircraft, indicating an onboard fire. The plane subsequently entered an uncontrolled descent and struck the ground roughly 2 km short of the runway, where it ignited.
Findings
- The pilot, who was the only person on board, was killed in the accident.
- The pilot's remains were located in Pohjalampi Lake, a short distance from the primary debris field.
- Investigations determined that the pilot fell from the aircraft while it was on final approach.