What happened
On May 15, 2020, at approximately 16:30 LT, a Flight Design CT2K, registration YR-5122, was performing a takeoff from a private airstrip near Vurpăr, Vințu de Jos, Alba County. The airstrip is uniquely oriented north-south, perpendicular to the Mureș River valley, which dictates specific takeoff and landing directions due to local terrain.
The pilot began the takeoff roll from the left side of the runway in an attempt to compensate for a crosswind component coming from the right. During the roll, the aircraft drifted toward the left edge of the runway. To avoid exiting the runway boundaries, the pilot forced the aircraft into the air at a speed lower than recommended. Shortly after liftoff, the left main landing gear struck a runway marker, inducing a leftward roll and yaw. The aircraft entered a curved flight path that eventually turned it in the opposite direction of its intended takeoff heading. While attempting to climb over a nearby fence, the aircraft's left wing struck the edge of a roadway, causing the wing to separate from the fuselage and resulting in the total destruction of the Flight Design CT2K.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's flight history for the day, which included several training flights earlier that afternoon. Investigators analyzed the meteorological conditions, noting that wind speeds had increased and shifted direction compared to previous flights. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's configuration, specifically noting changes in weight and center of gravity following the departure of an instructor passenger. Furthermore, the physical characteristics of the airstrip, including its orientation relative to the river valley and the presence of obstacles, were evaluated.
Findings
- The pilot failed to maintain the runway centerline during the takeoff roll due to an inability to compensate for the crosswind component.
- The aircraft was operated at a low airspeed near its stall speed, which significantly reduced the effectiveness of the primary flight controls (ailerons).
- The pilot's rapid and successive application of control inputs without allowing time for the aircraft to respond contributed to the loss of control.
- Changes in the aircraft's weight and lateral center of gravity—resulting from the pilot flying solo rather than with an instructor—affected handling characteristics.
- The airstrip's orientation perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction and the presence of obstacles at the northern end created challenging operating conditions.
- The pilot misjudged the existing meteorological conditions and the aircraft's performance capabilities under those specific conditions.