What happened
On December 14, 2016, a Dimonad Aircraft DA40 was performing a takeoff from runway 28 at Poznań-Ławica Airport (EPPO) with a full load of passengers. After reaching a speed of 60 knots, the pilot initiated a climb without having extended the takeoff flaps. This configuration led to an aerodynamic stall. During the stall, the aircraft veered to the right and exited the runway onto the adjacent grass area.
Following the excursion, the pilot taxied the aircraft back to the apron and conducted a visual inspection. After confirming no immediate damage, the pilot performed a second takeoff and successfully proceeded to land at EPBC without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator, focused on the flight parameters and the aircraft configuration during the departure phase. The inquiry examined the takeoff roll, the pilot's actions regarding flap deployment, and the aircraft's weight relative to its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW).
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the failure to extend the takeoff flaps to the required position during the departure.
- The aircraft was operating at a weight close to its MTOW, which reduced the safety margin during the climb.
- A contributing factor was the pilot's limited experience performing takeoffs while operating at maximum takeoff weight.