What happened
On October 14, 1963, a Pilatus Porter PC-6, registration HB-FAE, was engaged in a maneuver exercise involving the transport of five soldiers. The flight originated from a meadow near Rietheim, AG, intended for a troop transport mission. However, the mission parameters proved unfeasible, necessitating a return to the initial takeoff site.
During the approach to the field, the pilot elected to land with a tailwind. As the aircraft attempted to decelerate on the landing strip, the pilot was unable to stop the aircraft in time. During the rollout, both wingtips collided with trees located within a clearing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the landing approach and the pilot's ability to control the aircraft's deceleration on the improvised landing surface. The commission examined the flight path and the decision-making process regarding the use of a tailwind for the return to the meadow.
Findings
- The aircraft's wingtips struck trees during the landing roll.
- The pilot attempted a landing under the influence of a tailwind.
- The pilot lacked sufficient training for performing improvised field operations.
- There were no injuries to the five passengers or the pilot, though the aircraft suffered significant damage.