What happened
On a scheduled leisure flight, a single-engine aircraft departed from Yao Airport at 11:57 local time, bound for Fukushima. The flight was operated with two people on board, consisting of the pilot and one passenger. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot contacted Air Traffic Control to report an unforeseen emergency. In response to this communication, the pilot was granted permission to perform an immediate return to Yao Airport.
While maintaining an altitude of 17,200 feet and a velocity of 150 knots, the aircraft type entered a state of uncontrolled descent. During this descent, the plane experienced partial mid-air disintegration. The aircraft ultimately impacted hilly, heavily wooded terrain located near the village of Yamazoe. Upon impact, the wreckage ignited, resulting in a post-crash fire. There were two fatalities recorded as a result of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of control at high altitude.
- Structural failure occurred during the descent phase of the flight.