What happened
On 28 October 2003, a Piper Cheyenne PA-42, registration D-IFSH, was operating a scheduled flight from Leipzig to Zurich. During the final approach to runway 14, the aircraft encountered extremely low visibility, with runway visual range (RVR) values reported at approximately 275 to 325 meters.
As the aircraft progressed on the instrument landing system (ILS) approach, the crew received landing clearance and updated RVR information. However, following the clearance, the flight crew ceased radio communications, failing to respond to multiple inquiries from the tower controller regarding their position. The aircraft subsequently touched down on the grass to the right of the runway, parallel to the RVR lights. The aircraft slid approximately 90 meters from the centerline and came to a halt 1200 meters past the runway threshold. The impact caused heavy damage to the aircraft, though the two pilots on board escaped without physical injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the technical condition of the aircraft, the meteorological environment, and the operational procedures of the operator. Investigators confirmed that the ground-based navigation aids were functioning correctly and found no evidence of mechanical failure contributing to the accident.
Review of the crew's training and the operator's manuals revealed significant discrepancies. The investigation focused on the crew's decision-making during the approach, their adherence to established company procedures, and the adequacy of the operator's oversight regarding pilot competency and all-weather operation protocols.