2 fatalities

1994-07-07: Rockwell Grand Commander 680 (SE-GUO) — Varmlandsflyg — Väsby, Sweden

Väsby, SwedenFlight

On July 7, 1994, a Rockwell Grand Commander 680 (registration SE-GUO) operated by Varmlandsflyg was involved in an aviation accident near Väsby, Sweden in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the accident was caused by the crew not being able to see in time those unknown to them and difficult-to-detect antenna cables emanating from the top of the telemast. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781208863Data APIEditorial standards

A survey aircraft struck power cables at low altitude in Väsby, causing the right wing to shear off and a crash that killed both occupants. The investigation attributed the accident to the crew's inability to detect unknown antenna cables and a lack of information about the mast design.

Accident Details

On an afternoon departure from Eskilstuna Airport, a survey aircraft carrying one geotechnician and one pilot was conducting a low-level survey mission for the Swedish Geological Service. While approaching the Väsby area under visual flight rules, the aircraft was flying at an altitude of 30 to 50 meters when it collided with power cables. The collision partially sheared off the right wing, and the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent, crashing 180 meters further. Both occupants were killed. There was no fire.

Investigation

Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the collision. The aircraft had been operating at a very low altitude as part of its survey mission, which required close proximity to terrain and obstacles. The power cables involved were antenna cables emanating from the top of a telemast, which were described as difficult to detect and unknown to the crew.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the accident was caused by the crew not being able to see in time those unknown to them and difficult-to-detect antenna cables emanating from the top of the telemast. Contributing to the accident was the lack of information about the mast's special design in aviation publications.