Single-engine aircraft crash near Three Hills Airport

No fatalities • Three Hills, Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine airplane crashed in a snow-covered field during its approach to Three Hills Airport due to adverse weather conditions.

What happened

During an approach to Three Hills Airport, a single-engine airplane encountered challenging weather conditions. While maneuvering in the area, the aircraft descended too low and impacted the ground. The force of the impact caused the plane to lose its left wing before it eventually came to a stop in a field covered in snow.

All three people on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage. Among the occupants, one passenger sustained slight injuries, while the others were unharmed. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

  • The pilot was operating the aircraft in poor weather conditions during the approach phase.
  • The impact with the ground resulted in the separation of the left wing.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground due to the pilot flying at an insufficient altitude during poor weather conditions.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-01-29 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident near Three Hills, Canada?

A single-engine airplane crashed in a snow-covered field during its approach to Three Hills Airport due to adverse weather conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 2013-01-29 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-01-29 involved a Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class), registration C-GMHP, operated by 1649808 Alberta, at Three Hills, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground due to the pilot flying at an insufficient altitude during poor weather conditions.

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