Accident Details
On Thursday, 20 February 2020, a Piper PA-60-602P, registration EC-HRJ, departed Sabadell Airport (LELL) for Pamplona Airport (LEPP). At 17:51:43 local time, near the SURCO waypoint, the aircraft's radar trace showed a sudden course change from 300° to 317°. Moments later, at 17:53:12, the pilot contacted Madrid air control to report problems with one engine, stating, “I’m not sure if I’ve lost the turbo.” At 17:57:22, the pilot further reported, “I’ve lost an engine.”
Final Approach and Crash
The pilot then contacted Pamplona control tower at 17:57:58. When asked if assistance was needed, the pilot replied that it was not. At 18:16:15, the pilot reported being on right base for runway 33. The controller cleared the aircraft to land and requested notification when on final. At 18:19:40, the tower controller observed the aircraft crash and a column of smoke, alerting the airport Fire Extinguishing Service (SEI). The aircraft had impacted the ground during the final approach, severing a power line. The pilot, the sole occupant, was killed. The impact and subsequent fire completely destroyed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident: the aircraft lost control on final approach to runway 33 as a result of flying with asymmetrical power.