2 fatalities

2002-04-12: Swearingen SA227 Metro III (EC-GKR) — Tadair — Palma de Mallorca-Son Sant Juan, Spain

Palma de Mallorca-Son Sant Juan, SpainLanding (descent or approach)

On April 12, 2002, a Swearingen SA227 Metro III (registration EC-GKR) operated by Tadair was involved in an aviation accident near Palma de Mallorca-Son Sant Juan, Spain during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident resulted from an improper, low-altitude turning maneuver during a non-standard night approach that led to a loss of aerodynamic control. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781201942Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine cargo aircraft crashed during a night approach at Palma de Mallorca Airport, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

What happened

A cargo operation departing from Madrid-Barajas Airport ended in a fatal accident during its arrival at Palma de Mallorca Airport. The flight, which was transporting 1,340 kilograms of various goods, was operating under night conditions. While performing the final turn for an approach to runway 24L, the twin engine aircraft experienced a stall and impacted the runway surface.

Following the initial impact, the aircraft lost directional control and drifted toward the right side of the airfield. During this excursion, the plane struck a lightning protection system before coming to a final position upside down in a nearby grassy area. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe and two fatalities among the crew.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the accident was driven by an improper approach sequence. The crew executed a turn at low altitude and during a night descent that deviated from both standard operating procedures and established company protocols. This maneuver was performed too closely to the ground, leading to a loss of control. It is believed the pilot encountered a loss of lift or a slip during the tight turn, which rendered the aircraft unrecoverable.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from an improper, low-altitude turning maneuver during a non-standard night approach that led to a loss of aerodynamic control.