What happened
On August 7, 2002, at approximately 11:20 UTC, a Quicksilver MXL II Sport ultralight, registration CS-UKY, was performing a simulated forced landing at the Benavente airfield in Portugal. The aircraft, operated by Aerolazer, was carrying a pilot and one passenger on a local flight.
During the maneuver, the pilot attempted a tight left-hand turn to align with runway 33. While executing this turn at a low altitude and close to the ground, the aircraft lost altitude and the left wingtip struck the terrain approximately 15 meters south of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to rotate 180 degrees to the left before coming to a halt. The impact resulted in two serious injuries, one to the pilot and one to the passenger, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation examined the flight history, the pilot's qualifications, and the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft during the maneuver. Investigators analyzed the relationship between bank angle and stall speed for this specific aircraft type, noting that at bank angles exceeding 45 degrees, the stall speed increases by approximately 25%.
Technical examination of the wreckage showed a deformed tubular structure, wings, and tail, along with a broken nose wheel and propeller blades. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight records, noting that while the pilot was qualified to fly the aircraft, he lacked the specific authorization required to carry passengers. Additionally, the investigation looked into the pilot's recent flight experience, finding a lack of recent continuity in flying activities.