On June 21, 2008, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration HA-MBC) operated by Air Patrol was involved in an aviation accident near Krems, Austria during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control at lift off because the CofG was after the rear limit due to a poor flight preparation and a wrong seating of the skydivers and their equipment in the main cabin. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A single-engine airplane struck a tree with both right wings and crashed in an open field about 200 meters from the runway shortly after takeoff from Krems-Langenlois Airport. All 12 skydivers and the pilot escaped uninjured. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident
Shortly after takeoff from Krems-Langenlois Airport, a single-engine airplane experienced difficulties gaining altitude. During the climb, both right wings struck a tree. The aircraft subsequently crashed in an open field approximately 200 meters from the runway. The collision caused substantial damage, rendering the aircraft beyond repair. All 12 skydivers and the pilot aboard evacuated the wreckage without injury.
Investigation
An official investigation was conducted into the incident. The findings focused on the aircraft's performance and loading conditions at the time of the accident.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as stated in the official findings, was loss of control at lift off because the center of gravity was after the rear limit due to poor flight preparation and a wrong seating of the skydivers and their equipment in the main cabin.