What happened
On 24 November 2016, a Piper PA-3/1, registration D-IFBU, operated by GER-POL Air Taxi GmbH, was performing a VFR flight from Przylep (EPZP) to Nordhorn (EDWN). Following a delay due to morning mist, the pilot commenced the takeoff run on runway 06 at approximately 12:05 hrs.
During the rotation phase, the pilot moved the landing gear control lever to the retracted position. Shortly after this action, the aircraft touched down again on the soft, wet surface of the runway. The contact with the ground caused the main landing gear to brake, inducing a nose-down pitching moment. As the nose landing gear was in the process of retracting, it collided with the ground, followed by the propeller blades of both engines striking the runway surface.
Despite the engine propellers striking the ground, the pilot continued the takeoff roll. The aircraft eventually lifted off with a significant left bank. At an altitude of approximately twelve meters, the aircraft rolled to the left and collided with the ground. The impact was severe: both engines were torn from their nacelles, the cockpit and nose section were destroyed, and the aircraft's wings were heavily damaged. The pilot sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined wreckage, video footage of the takeoff roll, and witness statements. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's maintenance history, which showed the plane was fit for flight and had undergone periodic service recently. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, confirming a valid CPL(A) and medical certificate, and confirmed that no alcohol was present in the pilot's system.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a pilot error involving the premature retraction of the landing gear during the rotation phase, which was contrary to the aircraft's flight manual.
- A contributing factor was the pilot's failure to immediately abort the takeoff after the propeller blades had already struck the runway surface.
- The uneven retraction of the landing gear caused the aircraft to roll to the left, leading to the asymmetric impact and subsequent loss of control.