Introduction
On 26 May 2000, aircraft HB-LTC, a modified PA31, crashed shortly after takeoff from Zurich Airport. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. The accident occurred near runway 28 at approximately 20:22 UTC.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft had been used for commercial flights between Zurich and Béziers, France, on 25 and 26 May 2000. On 25 May, the pilot ordered a full refueling with AVGAS 100LL from Jet Aviation Zurich AG. The refueling attendant noticed the winglets and asked if the aircraft required jet kerosene, but upon seeing the square engine housings, concluded it had reciprocating engines. The pilot confirmed the aircraft was modified but not to turboprop operation. The attendant filled the four tanks with 372 liters of AVGAS, resulting in a total of 726 liters of fuel. The aircraft then flew to Béziers and returned to Zurich on 26 May, with an additional 107 liters of AVGAS added in Béziers.
After landing at Zurich at 19:10, the pilot decided to refuel for the flight back to Geneva. He ordered fuel by telephone; the order was relayed by radio to another attendant. The attendant pumped 50 liters of JET A-1 into each of the two inboard main cells. He did not observe any markings indicating the permitted fuel types. After completing the transaction, the pilot received the delivery note and the aircraft was prepared for departure.
At 20:08, the pilot contacted clearance delivery and received departure clearance. The aircraft taxied to runway 28 and was cleared for takeoff at 20:20:58. Witnesses reported a normal takeoff and climb.
Accident
At approximately 50 meters above ground level, the aircraft stopped climbing, maintained level flight briefly, and then began to descend slightly while making a gentle right turn. The aerodrome controller asked if everything was normal; the pilot replied negatively. The aircraft then entered a left turn with a high bank angle and the landing gear was observed to be lowered. The pilot declared a mayday at 20:22:21. During the turn, the aircraft lost height rapidly after crossing the extended centerline of runway 28. When the turn was nearly complete, the bank angle reduced. At about 10 meters AGL, the aircraft collided with trees, passed through a copse, and came to rest inverted in the Glatt river. The pilot was fatally injured on impact.
The final position was at coordinates 682 700/256 700, elevation 420 m AMSL (1378 ft AMSL).
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified causal factors: a misunderstanding occurred when the fuel was ordered, and the refuelling attendant concerned did not [incomplete in source].