What happened
On the evening of February 20, 2020, a Piper PA-60-602P, registered as EC-HRJ, departed from Sabadell Airport (LELL) with the intention of landing at Pamplona Airport (LEPP). During the flight, radar tracking indicated a deviation in the aircraft's course near the SURCO waypoint, where the heading shifted from 300º to 317º.
Shortly after this deviation, the pilot notified Madrid air traffic control regarding potential engine issues, specifically expressing uncertainty regarding the status of the turbocharger. By 17:57, the pilot confirmed that an engine had indeed failed. Following this, the pilot established contact with the Pamplona control tower. Although the controller offered assistance, the pilot declined any help at that time.
At approximately 18:16, the pilot reported being on the right base for runway 33. After receiving clearance to land, the aircraft proceeded toward the runway. During the final approach phase, the aircraft struck the ground, subsequently severing a power line. The impact and the resulting fire led to the total destruction of the Piper PA-60-602P. The pilot, who was the only person on board, was killed in the crash.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced an engine failure during the flight.
- The aircraft struck a power line during the impact on the ground.