What happened
On September 26, 2017, a Cessna 421B, registration OK-TKF, was conducting an IFR flight from Příbram (LKPM) to Gdańsk (EPGD). While climbing through approximately 14,100 feet near Noviny pod Ralskem, the pilot reported a loss of control of both engines. The aircraft entered a spin and descended into a forested area. The impact with the terrain and a subsequent fire destroyed the aircraft. The pilot and the passenger both sustained fatal injuries.
Witnesses and video footage indicated that the aircraft made a loud, high-intensity noise and the engines appeared to fluctuate before failing. The aircraft was observed in a steep descent and a left-hand spin before disappearing into the tree canopy, followed by a visible flash and heavy smoke.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined radar records, air traffic control communications, hangar surveillance footage, and the aircraft's maintenance logs. The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the engines, the pilot's experience, and the aircraft's airworthiness status.
Investigators analyzed the pilot's flight logs, which showed significant experience on single-engine aircraft but limited experience on the Cessna 421B. The investigation also scrutinized the maintenance history of the engines, noting that the left engine had exceeded its established time-in-service limit (TSO) for certain components.