On February 5, 1987, a Swearingen SA226AT Merlin IV (registration D-IEWK) operated by RFG Regionalflug was involved in an aviation accident near Munich-Riem, Germany during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Wrong approach configuration on part of the crew who failed to adhere to published procedures and failed to follow the approach checklist. The crew decided to continue the approach after passing the MDA without establishing visual contact with the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On approach to Munich-Riem Airport in poor weather with low clouds and fog, the crew descended below the MDA, striking the runway. The aircraft slid 300 meters on its belly, damaging it beyond repair. All 14 occupants suffered minor injuries.
Accident Description
During an approach to Munich-Riem Airport, the aircraft encountered poor weather conditions characterized by low clouds and fog, resulting in limited visibility. While on final approach, the crew descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) until the aircraft struck the runway surface. Upon impact, the undercarriage were torn off, and the aircraft slid on its belly for approximately 300 meters before coming to rest. All 14 occupants escaped with minor injuries, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Probable Cause and Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a wrong approach configuration on the part of the crew, who failed to adhere to published procedures and failed to follow the approach checklist. The crew decided to continue the approach after passing the MDA without establishing visual contact with the runway. The following findings were reported:
Poor flight preparation
Poor approach planning
The crew was not properly certified to fly in such conditions