What happened
On March 9, 2002, an Antonov AN-2, registration LY-AVD, departed Budapest-Ferihegy Airport at 08:29 local time. The flight was planned as a VFR mission to Tunis, with a route intended to pass over Split and Pescara before crossing the Apennines.
During the transit through central Italy, the aircraft encountered adverse weather characterized by low cloud cover, icing conditions, and thunderstorm activity associated with a cold front. At 13:20 local time, while flying over the Adriatic Sea near Pescara, the pilot reported an intention to proceed to the Aneda reporting point at a cruising altitude of 5,500 feet. Air traffic control confirmed that the crew could continue under visual flight rules.
Shortly after this communication, while traveling at 115 knots, the aircraft struck the slope of Mt Rotondo near Rocca di Mezzo. The impact caused the plane to disintegrate, and all three occupants were killed.
Findings
The investigation concluded that the accident was a case of Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT). Due to reduced visibility that was incompatible with VFR operations, the crew failed to properly assess the terrain along their path. The meteorological conditions prevented the flight from being conducted under visual rules, yet the crew did not divert to an alternate airport or change course to maintain necessary clearance from obstacles.
Several contributing factors were identified, including the fact that the Antonov AN-2 was not equipped for instrument flight or icing conditions. Additionally, it was noted that the pilot lacked the required IFR qualification and did not possess the necessary English language radio-telephony certification for international operations.