Accident Overview
A single-engine aircraft took off from Samedan Airport's runway 03 for a local flight, carrying two passengers and a pilot/instructor. While climbing to an altitude of 125 metres, the engine failed.
Maneuver and Impact
The pilot initiated a 180° turn with the intention of making an immediate landing on runway 21. At a speed of 140 km/h, the aircraft struck tree tops and crashed inverted, coming to rest on the right side of the runway. The wreckage was located 350 metres past the runway threshold and 20 metres to the right.
Occupants and Damage
All three occupants escaped without injury. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident was caused by an engine failure in the climbing phase, during which the altitude of the aircraft was insufficient to complete a 180° turn. Factors that may have contributed to the engine failure include carburettor icing and incorrect mixture regulation setting.