Serious incident to the Pilatus PC12 registered N668TW operated by Tradewind Aviation on 19/01/2024 at Saint-Barthélemy
Destabilisation during final approach, vegetation strike
Responsible entity
Investigation progression
Closed
During the approach to runway 10 of Saint-Barthélemy airport, the aeroplane flew in a turbulent environment caused by a gusty easterly wind. The flight followed a lower approach path with very probably a lower airspeed than those taken by other flights in comparable wind conditions.
When flying over Col de la Tourmente pass, the captain encountered strong gusts. The aeroplane banked to the left-hand side when it was at a low height and the left-hand wing tip struck a tree. The crew continued the approach and landed without further incident.