What happened
On March 17, 2017, a private Husky A 1, registration HB-KEK, was conducting a flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) originating from Sion Airport (LSGS). The pilot initially intended to land at several mountain landing sites, including Ebnefluh and Jungfraujoch, but decided to bypass these locations due to encountering severe turbulence.
The pilot proceeded to attempt a landing at the Theodul Glacier (LSYT) airfield. Following an initial landing attempt, a second approach was made. During this second approach, the aircraft encountered wind gusts, which caused the landing on the steeply inclined glacier slope to overshoot the intended touchdown point. In an effort to recover, the pilot immediately attempted a go-around.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the aircraft coming to a halt on the slope. Investigators examined the environmental conditions, specifically the presence of heavy turbulence and gusts, and the aircraft's movement across the terrain. The investigation established that the aircraft slid over a snow edge during the aborted landing attempt.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained heavy damage during the incident.
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of control during the landing phase, precipitated by strong turbulence and wind gusts encountered during the second approach.
- The steep gradient of the glacier slope contributed to the aircraft overshooting the landing area.
- The subsequent attempt to take off immediately after the overshoot resulted in the aircraft sliding over a snow edge, leading to its eventual immobilization on the slope.