The meteorological conditions at Split Airport were favorable for VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flying, but as the aircraft entered the inland area, the pilot encountered significantly more complex weather conditions.
At one point, the pilot informed air traffic control that he was losing altitude, and shortly thereafter, the aircraft disappeared from radar.
Search and rescue operations were immediately launched by the relevant authorities. The aircraft was found the following morning, destroyed and burned. The individuals aboard the aircraft did not survive. The investigation determined that the cause of the accident was the loss of control of the aircraft. Contributory factors included unsuitable weather conditions for VFR flight, insufficient flight preparation, lack of pilot awareness of the actual situation, and the pilot’s inability to operate the aircraft in IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) conditions.
The Air, Maritime and Railway Traffic Accident Investigation Agency (AIN) did not issue safety recommendations, as the factors leading to this accident are well-known in aviation practice and adequately addressed by existing aviation regulations.
INVESTIGATION
The first information regarding the aircraft’s disappearance was received by the Air, Maritime and Railway Traffic Accident Investigation Agency from Croatian Air Traffic Control shortly after the aircraft disappeared from radar. This was followed by a report from the Ministry of the Interior’s Operational Communication Center (OKC MUP).
From that point, AIN maintained continuous contact with the services involved in the search and rescue operation.
AIN investigators were dispatched to the area where the aircraft went missing, and the aircraft was found the following morning. AIN issued an accident notification and initiated an investigation. The on-site investigation began shortly after the aircraft was found and was completed the following day.
In accordance with the provisions of ICAO Annex 13, 30 days after the accident, AIN issued a Preliminary Report, which included information about the event and early findings from the investigation.
Upon completion of the investigation, AIN issued a Final Report.