What happened
On June 22, 2002, at 10:05 local time, a Reims-Cessna F-172N, registration EC-DUC, was performing a non-commercial pleasure flight from Sabadell Airport, Spain. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and two passengers. During the takeoff roll on runway 31, the pilot utilized a 40º flap setting. As the aircraft reached approximately 60 knots, the pilot rotated the aircraft, but the airspeed subsequently dropped to just over 50 knots, triggering the stall warning.
Despite maintaining full power, the aircraft began to lose altitude. The pilot directed the aircraft toward the C-58 highway to perform an emergency landing. During the descent, the aircraft's right landing gear struck the roof of a vehicle traveling toward Barcelona. The aircraft then struck a highway signpost, causing the left wing to strike a metal guardrail. The impact caused the left wing and landing gear to detach, and the aircraft slid along the roadway before coming to a halt on its side.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's configuration, weight and balance, and the pilot's takeoff procedures. Investigators found that the flaps had been retracted to 0º prior to the impact. The engine was still producing power at the time of the crash, as indicated by propeller deformation.
Regarding weight and balance, while a weight and balance sheet was not on board, a manual indicated a zero weight of 652 kg. However, other records suggested a higher empty weight. The investigation also reviewed the takeoff performance, noting that the pilot maintained a high nose-up attitude during the takeoff roll. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying very low with high flap deflection and a high pitch angle.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the decision to initiate and continue the takeoff with 40º flaps while likely operating at a weight that exceeded the maximum takeoff weight.
- The pilot maintained an excessively high nose-up attitude during the takeoff roll.
- The subsequent retraction of the flaps to 0º, before the aircraft had achieved sufficient airspeed for the new configuration, resulted in a sudden loss of lift.
- The aircraft was likely operating at a weight exceeding its certified limits.
- The pilot's attempt to minimize damage by maneuvering toward the highway led to the impacts with the vehicle and highway infrastructure.
Safety action
- REC 37/02: Recommended that airport authorities conduct a study on runway usage at Sabadell Airport to establish procedures for assigning the safest runway based on aircraft needs.
- REC 38/02: Recommended that flight schools and clubs implement check procedures to ensure that accurate weight and balance information is always available on board to allow for precise takeoff calculations.