2024 Aeroprakt A-22L Tragedy as Wingtip Hits Motorcyclist in Fatal Low-Altitude Pass
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On Sunday, January 28, 2024, an Aeroprakt A-22L ultralight aircraft with registration EC-FI1 took off from Torremocha de Jiloca aerodrome in Teruel, Spain. Its destination was Robledillo de Mohernando aerodrome in Guadalajara. This aircraft, owned by a private operator, embarked on what appeared to be a straightforward journey. However, what began as a routine flight quickly turned into a tragic accident over the region of Alarilla, located in the province of Guadalajara.
Incident Involving Aeroprakt A-22L near Alarilla
As the Aeroprakt A-22L neared the municipality of Alarilla, it began flying over the Alto de La Muela. In its initial pass, the aircraft flew in a southwesterly direction, maintaining a standard altitude and positioning. The pilot then made a right turn, attempting to circle back and make a second pass. The maneuver, however, brought the plane dangerously close to the ground. In this pass, it came into proximity with a person on a motorcycle who was traveling in the same area.
As the plane descended, the wing tip struck the motorcyclist, who had been moving along the western slope of the hill. This impact altered the plane’s trajectory, leading it into an uncontrolled descent that ended with a severe collision with the ground. Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire almost immediately, leaving minimal time for rescue efforts or for the occupants to escape the wreckage.
Aftermath and Investigation of the Aeroprakt A-22L Crash
The outcome of the accident was devastating. The two people on board the Aeroprakt A-22L, whose identities were not disclosed in initial reports, did not survive the crash. Tragically, they were unable to escape the aircraft following the impact and fire. The motorcyclist, however, sustained only minor injuries despite the sudden collision, managing to avoid severe harm in what could have been a far more dangerous situation for him as well.
Eyewitness accounts noted that the aircraft was seen making the first pass at a normal altitude but dipped unusually low during its second pass, leading to speculation about potential misjudgment or mechanical issues. Authorities were quick to arrive at the scene, and an investigation was launched to determine the causes that led to this fatal accident. While the exact reasons remain under examination, the mishap emphasizes the inherent risks associated with low-altitude flying in ultralight aircraft, particularly when flying near uneven terrain or populated areas.
The Aeroprakt A-22L is known for its lightweight, flexible design, often used in recreational flying. It has a relatively low stall speed, which provides safety in most general circumstances but can pose risks if altitude and trajectory are misjudged.
Watch the footage of the incident below:
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