What happened
At approximately 1730 local time, a Cosmos Phase II ES ultralight, registered C-IFEK, departed from a private gravel runway in Saint-Mathias-de-Richelieu, Quebec. The flight was intended as a familiarization session for a passenger as part of an ongoing air show. Following takeoff, the pilot deviated from the established flight circuit used for the event. While flying at a low altitude, the aircraft performed a sharp bank and struck the ground near a heavy vehicle and large trees. The accident resulted in two fatalities, claiming the lives of both the pilot and the passenger.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the environmental factors present at the time of the accident. A maintenance check performed by an engineer just prior to the flight had indicated the aircraft was in normal condition. Laboratory analysis of various components by the TSB Engineering Branch determined that all identified fractures were the result of the violent ground impact, effectively ruling out any mid-air structural failure or engine malfunction. The engine was confirmed to be producing power at the moment of impact.
Regarding the pilot, toxicological and autopsy results showed no physiological impairments. While the aircraft's maintenance logs were unavailable—as Canadian regulations do not mandate such records for ultralight operators—the investigation focused on the flight dynamics and weather. The investigation also noted that the nature of "familiarization flights" in the ultralight sector lacks the formal structure or supervision found in conventional aeroplane training.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in winds ranging from 9 to 18 knots, which, combined with the local terrain, created conditions prone to low-level mechanical turbulence.
- The pilot likely encountered turbulence that led to an unmanageable loss of control.
- There was no evidence of mechanical failure or structural breakup prior to the impact.