Accident Summary
On 21 November 1984 at approximately 0855 local time, a Piper PA-34-200, registration HB-LES, collided with a wooden pole supporting an electrical line while on approach to Skive Airport (EKSV), Denmark. The accident occurred about 5 nautical miles north-northwest of Skive. The aircraft was operated by Horizon Services Ltd., Zurich, Switzerland, on a private IFR flight from Odense (EKOD) to Lindtorp (EKHO), with Skive designated as alternate.
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft, a Piper PA-34-200 Seneca, was manufactured in 1974 and held a valid airworthiness certificate. It was powered by two Lycoming IO-360-C1E6 engines. The pilot, a 30-year-old male, held a commercial pilot license with an instrument rating and had accumulated 360 hours 55 minutes total flight time, with 4 hours on type in the preceding 24 hours. The aircraft was carrying four passengers, one of whom held a private pilot license and assisted after the collision.
Flight History
The pilot obtained weather briefings prior to departure, including information indicating low clouds and reduced visibility over the region. The flight departed Odense at 0811 hours. After an exchange with air traffic control, the pilot was advised that weather at the destination Lindtorp was unavailable and diverted to Skive. While descending for the approach, the aircraft entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
Collision and Emergency Landing
During the approach, the aircraft struck a wooden mast at an estimated height of 110 feet above sea level, approximately 1.2 meters below its top. The collision tore open the left side of the aircraft, injuring the pilot's left foot. The pilot, with assistance from the passenger holding a private pilot license, conducted an emergency landing in an open field. The landing gear was extended and the aircraft came to rest after a shallow right turn.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained a broken left leg and was seriously injured. One passenger was seriously injured; the other three passengers were uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage from both the collision and the emergency landing. Damage was also inflicted on the public electrical line.
Weather
At the time of the accident, weather conditions in the area were characterized by low clouds and reduced visibility. The pilot had been informed of ceilngs as low as 200 feet and visibilities around 2000 to 2500 meters.