What happened
On July 11, 2008, at approximately 13:45 local time, a PA-28R-201T aircraft, registered as HB-PMB, was involved in an incident during takeoff from Biel-Kappelen (LSZP) airfield. While operating under VFR flight rules for a private flight, the aircraft departed from runway 23. Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient altitude, resulting in an undershoot. The aircraft came to a stop in a potato field located approximately 180 meters beyond the end of the runway. The incident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, though no injuries were reported among the pilot or the three passengers on board.
The investigation
The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board conducted an inquiry into the circumstances of the excursion. As part of the investigative process, a ground engine test was performed on the aircraft to evaluate its mechanical performance. Following this inspection, investigators were unable to identify any mechanical or technical failures contributing to the loss of climb performance.
Findings
Investigators concluded that there were no technical defects found within the engine or the aircraft systems that would account for the failure to climb. Because no mechanical malfunction was established, the investigation was terminated via summary proceedings.