What happened
On June 8, 2016, at approximately 19:31 LMT, an XtremeAir XA-42 was performing a takeoff from runway DS28 at the EPBC aerodrome for a training flight. During the initial climb phase, the cockpit canopy opened dynamically and spontaneously. The force of the airflow caused the canopy to break away from its hinges and detach from the aircraft.
Despite the loss of the canopy, the pilot maintained control of the aircraft, noting that the plane remained maneuverable and responded correctly to power changes. The pilot performed a small circuit over the airfield before deciding to land. The landing was completed at 19:34 LMT. Due to the high-speed airflow, the pilot's headset was blown off his head, making radio communication with AFIS impossible during the flight; consequently, the air traffic services were only notified after the aircraft had taxied off the runway.
Upon inspection, the aircraft sustained minor damage, specifically impact marks on the upper surface of the right wing and the right aileron. Debris from the broken canopy was recovered by airport services.
The investigation
The PKBWL conducted the investigation based on information provided by the aircraft user. The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the canopy attachment and the pilot's ability to communicate with ground services during the emergency.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the unintentional unlocking of the canopy latch during flight for an undetermined reason.
- Weather conditions at the time of the event did not contribute to the occurrence.
- The loss of the headset due to wind blast prevented the pilot from notifying AFIS during the climb and descent.