What happened
On April 19, 1970, a Cessna F 150 G, registration HB-CBY, departed from Milan-Malpensa for a flight to Locarno-Magadino. The pilot had previously landed at Malpensa during a return trip from Italy. After departing Malpensa at 16:51, the aircraft flew toward the Locarno area.
At approximately 17:20, the pilot radioed the Locarno airfield, reporting a position of Magadino and indicating a downwind pattern. The airfield controller responded by warning that visibility was extremely poor, dropping below 400 meters. The aircraft did not acknowledge this warning. Shortly thereafter, a witness observed the aircraft flying at low power and low altitude, approximately 20 meters above the water, moving toward the northeast. As the aircraft attempted a right-hand turn toward Locarno, it entered a descending turn with an increasing bank angle. The right wing eventually struck the surface of Lake Maggiore, causing the aircraft to cartwheel and sink immediately.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted in collaboration with the Locarno Cantonal Police, examined the aircraft, the pilot's records, and the meteorological conditions. The wreckage analysis showed the engine was functional at the time of impact, and the aircraft was found to be in an airworthy condition with all weight and balance parameters within limits.
Meteorological data revealed that the region was experiencing heavy rain and fog, with visibility significantly reduced. At the Locarno-Aeroporto station, visibility had dropped to 500 meters, and at other nearby locations, it was even lower. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight experience and the specific flight plan, noting that the pilot had operated under a Special VFR clearance.
Findings
- The pilot continued the flight under weather conditions that were insufficient for VFR flight.
- The pilot failed to conduct a meteorological briefing prior to departure, leaving him unaware of the deteriorating conditions.
- The pilot likely lost control of the aircraft's attitude due to the extremely low visibility.
- There was a possibility that the pilot misidentified his position, potentially confusing Gerra with Magadino, which influenced his maneuvering.
- The pilot's extensive local knowledge of the area may have contributed to the decision to proceed despite the weather.
Safety action
No specific safety recommendations were recorded in the final report.