Aircraft collision with trees during training flight near Frielendorf

No fatalities • Wunstorf AFB, Germany • Flight

A training flight in the Hanover region resulted in an aircraft collision with trees during a transition from IFR to VFR flight modes.

What happened

During a scheduled training mission in the vicinity of Hanover, the crew was operating at a low altitude. While navigating the airspace near Frielendorf, the flight crew attempted to transition the aircraft from Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) to Visual Flight Rules (VFR). During this phase of flight, the aircraft struck a group of trees.

Following the impact, the crew initiated an emergency diversion to Wunstorf Air Base. The aircraft successfully reached the airfield and completed a safe landing. There were no injuries reported among the occupants, who were able to exit the aircraft without harm.

Findings

Although the aircraft was recovered, the impact caused significant structural damage to the tail section and the stabilizers. As a result of the severity of the damage, the aircraft was declared a total loss and was damaged beyond repair.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck trees during a transition from IFR to VFR flight modes at low altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-09-22 Transall C-160 accident near Wunstorf AFB, Germany?

A training flight in the Hanover region resulted in an aircraft collision with trees during a transition from IFR to VFR flight modes.

Were there any fatalities in the 2008-09-22 Transall C-160 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-09-22 involved a Transall C-160, registration 50+50, operated by German Air Force - Deutsche Luftwaffe, at Wunstorf AFB, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck trees during a transition from IFR to VFR flight modes at low altitude.

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