What happened
On October 31, 2022, at approximately 10:20 local time, a DR 400/180, registration HB-KFN, was performing a private flight departing from and returning to Bex Aerodrome (LSGB). The aircraft, operated by Groupe de vol à moteur du Chablam, was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with one pilot and three passengers on board.
Upon landing on the grass runway 33, the pilot encountered wet surface conditions. Following the touchdown, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure. During this maneuver, the pilot determined that the aircraft lacked sufficient performance to clear obstacles located at the end of the runway. In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot executed a second landing attempt. However, during this subsequent touchdown, the aircraft veered off the runway and collided with trees.
The investigation
The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (SUST) conducted an investigation into the occurrence. The inquiry focused on the sequence of events following the initial landing on the wet grass strip and the subsequent decision-making process regarding the go-around and the second landing attempt. The investigation confirmed that while there were no injuries to the crew or passengers, the aircraft was heavily damaged and minor damage was sustained to ground structures.
Findings
- The primary factor contributing to the excursion was the loss of directional control or runway excursion following a second landing attempt on a wet grass surface.
- The pilot's assessment of obstacle clearance led to the decision to re-land, which ultimately resulted in the collision with trees.