What happened
On January 3, 2014, a Cessna 172H, registration OK-ACP, crashed near the Roudnice airfield (LKRO) during a flight that began in Jihlava (LKJI). The flight, which initially proceeded under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) in good weather, became critical as the pilot attempted to find an airfield with an illuminated runway before sunset.
After realizing the original destination (LKKL) was no longer reachable due to approaching darkness, the pilot considered several alternatives. Due to inexperience with a newly installed GPS unit, the pilot missed the nearby airfield at Kladno (LKBE). Seeking an illuminated runway, the pilot noted a previous ATIS report for Prague (LKPR) indicating CAVOK conditions, but later discovered the airfield was closed. The pilot then decided to attempt a landing at Roudnice (LKRO), despite having received prior warnings from local club members that fog had persisted at the field all day.
During the approach to runway 13L, the pilot performed four separate landing attempts. While the runway lights were initially visible from a distance, the pilot lost visual reference with the ground during the descent. During the final approach, the aircraft entered a patch of fog. In an attempt to climb out of the low visibility and avoid ground lights, the pilot applied full power, but the aircraft lost airspeed, entered a stall, and subsequently entered a spin. The aircraft struck the ground at a low altitude, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft. The pilot sustained heavy injuries, while the passenger suffered minor injuries.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the pilot's statements, GPS data, aircraft documentation, and meteorological records. Investigators analyzed the engine's mechanical state, including the cylinders and ignition system, and reviewed the maintenance history. The investigation also looked into the pilot's navigation and the specific weather conditions at the time of the multiple approaches.
Findings
- The pilot attempted to conduct a VFR landing at an airfield where meteorological conditions had deteriorated to IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions).
- The pilot made repeated landing attempts despite the lack of visual references.
- The decision to land at the specific airfield was made too late.
- The loss of visual reference with the ground after entering fog led to an attempt to climb, which caused the aircraft to lose airspeed and enter a fatal descent.
- Although the pilot reported a perceived loss of engine power earlier in the flight, technical inspections of the engine, fuel, and electrical systems found no mechanical defects that contributed to the accident.
- The pilot was experienced and held valid licenses and medical certificates.