What happened
On July 13, 2003, a Cessna 182RG, registration N6412T, departed from Locarno-Magadino airport for a VFR flight toward Bolzano, Italy. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and three passengers. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported climbing through 3,000 feet near Bellinzona. As the aircraft progressed through the valley, witnesses observed it at various altitudes before hearing two consecutive explosions near the Costa del Credé. An emergency ELT signal was triggered, and a REGA helicopter crew arrived to find the aircraft on fire. All four fatalities were confirmed at the scene.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's performance, the pilot's experience, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. Investigators determined that the aircraft's takeoff weight was estimated between 3,100 and 3,200 lbs, which met or exceeded the maximum allowable takeoff weight of 3,100 lbs. The engine was found to be producing significant power at the moment of impact, and the wreckage indicated a very vertical descent trajectory. The investigation also noted that while the pilot had recently obtained a Swiss license, his training had not specifically included specialized alpine flight instruction.
Findings
Several contributing factors led to the loss of control during a turn attempt in a narrow valley at insufficient altitude. The primary cause was the loss of control during a return maneuver in terrain that was too low for the aircraft's performance capabilities. Key contributing factors included:
- Inappropriate flight tactics for mountainous terrain
- The pilot's limited experience in alpine flying
- An excessive takeoff weight
- Potential downdrafts on the northern side of the valley caused by north-northeasterly winds
- Visual impairments caused by morning haze and the low angle of the sun