What happened
On September 23, 2006, a Robin DR-400/500, registration HB-KFE, departed from Samedan aerodrome on runway 21. The flight, which included the pilot and three passengers, was intended to return to Sion. During the flight, the aircraft flew toward the Lake St. Moritz area. In the Charnadüra region, characterized by a narrow valley, the pilot initiated a right-hand turn at a low altitude. During this maneuver, the aircraft began to wobble and tipped onto its right wing, resulting in a collision with the ground near Suot Crasta, Celerina. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire and be destroyed. All four fatalities occurred among the occupants of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's technical condition, the pilot's experience, and the local meteorological and topographical environment. Investigators found that the aircraft's takeoff weight was approximately 1124 kg, which was near its maximum capacity of 1150 kg. Technical analysis of the engine and propeller showed no prior mechanical failures, though the high density altitude and heavy weight likely reduced engine performance. The investigation also noted that the pilot had never previously landed at or departed from Samedan aerodrome. Furthermore, the visual approach charts for Samedan did not explicitly detail a specific departure route or warn of the risks associated with deviating from the standard path.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an inappropriate flight tactic that led to a loss of control.
- The pilot lacked experience operating at this specific mountain aerodrome.
- The pilot overestimated the aircraft's flight performance under the prevailing conditions.
- There was a lack of clear guidance regarding an appropriate departure route on the aeronautical charts.
- Strong southwesterly winds (the Maloja wind) created significant turbulence and downdrafts in the area.
- The visual approach charts failed to clearly indicate the necessary changes in direction or the dangers of expanding the departure path into areas prone to downdrafts.