What happened
An IFR flight departed Chambery, France, at 1605 hrs, destined for Dunkeswell Aerodrome with Exeter Airport as a planned diversion. During the flight, the pilot monitored weather reports and confirmed that conditions at the destination appeared suitable. After an uneventful transit at FL270, the aircraft descended to FL60 as it approached the English south coast.
As the aircraft approached Dunkeswell, the pilot attempted to establish contact with Dunkeswell Radio but received no response, leading to the assumption that the airfield had closed. The pilot utilized GPS systems for navigation and relied on white reflective panels placed along the edge of Runway 23 to identify the runway surface in the absence of lighting. While on final approach, the pilot observed scattered clouds and a mist pocket approximately 2.5 nm from the threshold at 800 feet altitude.
In response to the visibility issues, the pilot initiated a go-around to divert to Exeter. During the climb, the pilot regained visual contact with the runway and attempted to resume the approach. However, a rapid rate of descent occurred, triggering the radio altimeter's 50-foot warning. Despite an attempt to increase engine power, the aircraft struck the terrain. The impact caused the wings to be severed by trees, though the fuselage remained upright in a grass field. There were zero fatalities and one injury reported, as the passenger was able to exit the cabin and assist the pilot in securing the aircraft's systems.
Findings
- The pilot attempted to resume the approach after an initial go-around maneuver.
- A high rate of descent developed during the second approach attempt.
- The pilot was unable to increase engine power sufficiently to prevent the impact.