Fatal crash of MB-2 Colibri 2 during missed approach in Belgium

Casualties unknown • Aerodrome Hasselt/Kiewit (EBZH/Belgien), CH

A private amateur-built aircraft crashed into a field following an aborted landing attempt at Hasselt/Kiewit Aerodrome.

What happened

On 22 September 2021, at approximately 14:25 UTC, an amateur-built MB-2 Colibri 2, registered F-PAMD, was performing a visual flight rules (VFR) flight departing from and returning to Aerodrome Hasselt/Kiew/it (EBZH) in Belgium. During the landing sequence, the pilot rejoined the circuit on the downwind leg and communicated an intention to perform a full stop. Witnesses observed a standard approach; however, immediately prior to touchdown, the pilot announced a go-around. While the initial climb following the missed approach appeared normal and without engine irregularities, the aircraft suddenly executed a sharp, steep turn to the left. This maneuver resulted in a rapid descent, causing the aircraft to impact the ground in a nearby field. The accident resulted in one fatality and the destruction of the aircraft.

The investigation

The investigation was conducted by the Belgian Air Accident Investigation Unit. Investigators reviewed witness accounts from the aerodrome radio frequency and observations from individuals on the ground. The inquiry focused on the flight path during the transition from the missed approach to the sudden descent, noting that no abnormal engine noises were reported by witnesses during the initial climb phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a steep, descending left turn immediately following a missed approach, leading to a high-speed impact with the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-09-22 DESIGNED BY BRüGGER, SWITZERLAND, AMATEUR BUILT MB-2 Colibri 2 accident near Aerodrome Hasselt/Kiewit (EBZH/Belgien), CH?

A private amateur-built aircraft crashed into a field following an aborted landing attempt at Hasselt/Kiewit Aerodrome.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-09-22 involved a DESIGNED BY BRüGGER, SWITZERLAND, AMATEUR BUILT MB-2 Colibri 2, registration F-PAMD, at Aerodrome Hasselt/Kiewit (EBZH/Belgien), CH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a steep, descending left turn immediately following a missed approach, leading to a high-speed impact with the ground.

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