What happened
On July 17, 2014, at approximately 20:30 local time, a TB 200 aircraft, registration HB-KDC, was performing a private VFR flight at Raron airfield (LSTA). Following a departure from runway 28, the pilot attempted a landing on the same runway via the downwind leg. During the turn to final, the pilot experienced significant glare from the evening sun. Realizing the aircraft was too high and fast on the approach, the pilot initiated a go-around.
To avoid the sun, the pilot opted to land on runway 10. During this subsequent approach, the aircraft experienced a long landing roll. As the aircraft approached the end of the runway, the pilot noted that the speed remained too high to safely execute another go-around but too low to maintain takeoff momentum. Despite braking efforts, the aircraft collided with an earth embankment located at the end of runway 10. The impact caused the nose gear to collapse, and the aircraft eventually came to a stop on a road leading to St. German.
The investigation
The investigation established that the sequence of events was driven by environmental conditions and the pilot's attempts to manage visibility. The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making regarding the change in runway approach and the management of the aircraft's energy during the landing roll on runway 10.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with an earth embankment following an overrun on runway 10.
- The pilot's visibility was compromised by the low angle of the evening sun during the initial approach to runway 28.
- The decision to switch to runway 10 was made to avoid sun glare.
- The aircraft's speed at the end of the runway was insufficient for a go-around but too high for a safe stop before the obstacle.
- The impact resulted in significant injuries to the pilot and one passenger, while the third occupant sustained minor or no injuries.