What happened
On July 2, 2008, a Diamond DA 42 Twin Star, registered N321SV, was conducting a VFR private flight from St. Gallen-Altenrhein toward Corfu, Greece. After departing at 08:23, the aircraft climbed through various altitudes, eventually reaching approximately 7000 ft QNH as it followed the Hinterrhein valley.
As the aircraft entered the basin of the Paradiesgletscher, it made contact with the upper part of the glacier. The aircraft crossed the ridge at a low altitude and subsequently fell into a 20-meter deep depression, colliding with a debris slope. The impact resulted in two serious injuries for the pilot and passenger, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
Investigators analyzed radio communications, engine control unit (FADEC) data, and passenger imagery. The FAD/NVM data confirmed that the engines were functioning normally up until the moment of impact. While the pilot claimed that strong downdrafts had forced the aircraft into a descent despite full power, the investigation found that the climb rate remained a constant 1000 ft/min, contradicting the claim of significant downdrafts. Furthermore, there was no evidence to support the pilot's assertion that the aircraft was flying between 8000 and 10,000 ft prior to the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance limits.
- There were no mechanical failures or technical defects contributing to the accident.
- The weather conditions at the time of the accident did not play a role in the event.
- The pilot entered a narrow valley at an altitude that provided insufficient clearance to fly over the lowest ridge or to execute a 180-degree turn.