What happened
On August 6, 2018, a Cessna 172S, registration F-GTNV, was engaged in a private VFR flight from Saint-Cyr-l’École toward Cassagnes. After a brief stop in Issoudun, the aircraft continued its southbound route at approximately 1,500 feet. Around 12:20, witnesses observed the pilot performing alternating left and right rolls before entering a left turn. The aircraft then entered a very steep dive, striking the side of a hill near Mazoires. The impact resulted in three fatalities, including the pilot and two passengers, and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's history, and environmental factors. The Cessna 172S was equipped with a G1000 glass cockpit and an autopilot system. Analysis of the wreckage showed no evidence of mid-air collision or structural failure prior to impact. The engine, a Lycoming IO-360-L2A, showed signs of damage consistent with the ground impact, and the fuel selector was set to the "BOTH" position.
Regarding the pilot, the 45-year-old commander had approximately 520 total flight hours, though his recent flight activity had been limited. Medical and toxicological examinations of the crew yielded no findings that could have contributed to the accident. While the aircraft's G1000 system could have recorded GPS tracks, no SD card was present to store the data. Additionally, the pilot's electronic flight planning software could not be audited as his account had been inactive for several months.
Findings
- The aircraft was within its weight and balance limits at the time of departure.
- Meteorological conditions involved a high-pressure area with warm, dry air, which can generate localized turbulence through convection, though significant thunderstorm activity had not yet reached the immediate area.
- The investigation could not determine the specific cause or circumstances of the accident, but investigators were able to rule out major mechanical failure, fuel exhaustion, or mid-air collision.