Aircraft crash at Hildesheim Airport

1 fatality • Hildesheim, Germany • Takeoff (climb)

A single-engine aircraft crashed into an industrial area following an unsuccessful takeoff at Hildesheim Airport, resulting in one fatality.

What happened

On the day of the accident, a twin engine aircraft was performing a takeoff roll from runway 25 at Hildesheim Airport. During the initial acceleration, the aircraft experienced a slow rate of speed increase, resulting in the plane lifting off from the middle of the runway rather than the intended departure point.

Following the takeoff, the aircraft maintained a shallow climb gradient. As the flight progressed, the plane lost altitude and began a descent toward the ground. The aircraft eventually struck a wall within an industrial zone situated approximately 900 metres beyond the runway threshold. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames, leading to the total destruction of the airframe. The pilot, who was the only person on board, was killed in the crash.

Findings

  • The aircraft failed to achieve sufficient speed during the takeoff roll.
  • The low climb gradient prevented the aircraft from clearing obstacles and maintaining altitude.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to maintain sufficient altitude after takeoff due to an inadequate climb gradient.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-09-13 Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600) accident near Hildesheim, Germany?

A single-engine aircraft crashed into an industrial area following an unsuccessful takeoff at Hildesheim Airport, resulting in one fatality.

Were there any fatalities in the 2011-09-13 Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-09-13 involved a Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600), registration D-IIWA, operated by AFIT, at Hildesheim, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to maintain sufficient altitude after takeoff due to an inadequate climb gradient.

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