Overview
A single-engine aircraft crashed approximately 500 meters short of the runway threshold at Zurich-Kloten Airport following a loss of control on short final. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed.
Flight and Weather
The flight from Bern to Zurich was uneventful until the descent. Weather conditions at the time of the approach were relatively good, with scattered clouds at 7,000 feet, visibility of 5 kilometers, wind from 340 degrees at 4 knots, and an outside air temperature of 20 degrees Celsius.
Accident Sequence
On short final to runway 14, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent. It struck the ground, losing its left wing before coming to rest about 500 meters short of the runway threshold.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the loss of control on short final occurred after the pilot suffered a heart attack.