Single-engine aircraft crash in Lake Constance

2 fatalities • Mainau Island, Germany • Flight

A single-engine airplane crashed into Lake Constance near Mainau Island during an instrument flight, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

What happened

On a flight from Zurich Airport to Hamburg-Helmut Schmidt Airport, a single-engine aircraft departed from Runway 28 at 11:34 local time. The flight was being operated under instrument flight rules (IFR) and was carrying two people: the pilot and one passenger.

While traversing the area above the city of Konstanz at an altitude of 16,750 feet, the aircraft began an uncontrolled descent. The plane eventually impacted the surface of Lake Constance, settling approximately 200 meters away from Mainau Island. Search efforts located the wreckage at a depth of 60 meters.

Findings

There were two fatalities resulting from the accident. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft entered a loss of control during the descent phase of the flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent while flying under instrument flight rules.

All Piper PA-46 Malibu/Meridian accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2017-08-08 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident near Mainau Island, Germany?

A single-engine airplane crashed into Lake Constance near Mainau Island during an instrument flight, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 2017-08-08 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2017-08-08 involved a Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class), registration HB-PPH, operated by Malibair, at Mainau Island, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent while flying under instrument flight rules.

Loading the flight search…