What happened
During a skydiving operation at Casale Monferrato-Francesco Cappa Airfield, a single-engine aircraft experienced a mechanical failure immediately following takeoff. The flight was the 13th mission of the day, transporting a pilot, seven skydivers, and three passengers.
As the aircraft climbed from the grass runway, the pilot encountered difficulties with the engine. The plane maintained a flat flight attitude and failed to gain sufficient altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck a hedge and several trees, eventually coming to a stop in a wooded area situated approximately 300 meters beyond the end of the runway.
All 11 occupants sustained injuries during the impact, with several individuals suffering serious harm. The aircraft was destroyed in the crash.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was engine problems occurring during the initial climb phase.