4 fatalities

2009-03-31: PZL-Mielec AN-28 (1007) — Polish Navy - Lotnictwa Marynarki Wojenna — Gdynia-Babie Doły AFB, Poland

Gdynia-Babie Doły AFB, PolandLanding (descent or approach)

On March 31, 2009, a PZL-Mielec AN-28 (registration 1007) operated by Polish Navy - Lotnictwa Marynarki Wojenna was involved in an aviation accident near Gdynia-Babie Doły AFB, Poland during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot in command was under instruction and was joining the circle to perform the final approach with one engine inoperative. He selected full flaps on final, which is against the procedure published in the AFM that requires a maximum flaps of 25°. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781196810Data APIEditorial standards

During a training sortie at Gdynia-Babie Doły AFB, an aircraft stalled on final approach with one engine inoperative. The crew attempted a go-around but hit trees and crashed, killing all four occupants.

Accident Details

The accident occurred at Gdynia-Babie Doły Air Force Base during a training sortie. The aircraft was on final approach with one engine intentionally shut down. As it slowed, the aircraft entered a stall. The crew decided to execute a go-around, but during the maneuver, the aircraft struck trees at the end of the runway and crashed. All four individuals on board were killed.

Sequence of Events

According to the investigation, the pilot in command was under instruction and was joining the traffic pattern for a final approach with one engine inoperative. During the final approach, the pilot selected full flaps, contrary to the approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) procedure, which limits flap extension to a maximum of 25 degrees. When power was applied for the go-around, the pilot lost directional control. The flight instructor did not intervene to take control of the aircraft.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause of the accident was the pilot in command's deviation from standard procedures by selecting full flaps on final approach, which led to a stall and loss of control. Additionally, the pilot failed to maintain directional control during the go-around, and the flight instructor did not assume control of the aircraft in time.