What happened
On 1 May 2018, a Cessna 172R, registered F-ONDU, was conducting a VFR cross-country flight from Pointe-à-Pitre Le Raizet to Les Saintes Terre-de-Haut in Guadeloupe. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and two passengers.
During the final approach to runway 09, the aircraft deviated from the recommended flight path. Radar data indicated the trajectory was offset approximately 250 meters to the south of the established approach path. Approximately 520 meters before the runway threshold, the aircraft's left wing collided with the top of a tree. The impact caused the pilot to lose control, and the aircraft subsequently struck a tree trunk 60 meters further along its path. The accident resulted in one serious injury and one slight injury, while the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found no evidence of mechanical failure prior to the impact. The flap extension cylinder was found to be consistent with a 30-degree extension setting.
Regarding pilot experience, the pilot held a private pilot license with a single-engine piston rating and had logged 352 total flight hours. While the pilot had been cleared to use the Les Saintes aerodrome since January 2018, his experience at this specific location was limited to a few flights as pilot-in-command.
The investigation also reviewed the specific approach procedures for Les Saintes. The standard approach for runway 09 is complex, requiring pilots to maintain specific altitudes over landmarks to avoid terrain. The investigation found that many pilots frequently deviate from the published path, often flying south of the centerline to acquire a view of the runway threshold more quickly, which places them in an area with obstacles and potential turbulence.
Findings
- The pilot followed an approach path that deviated from the recommended procedure, aligning with the runway centerline too early.
- By attempting to intercept the centerline prematurely, the pilot used a standard 3-degree glide slope that placed the aircraft at an altitude too low to clear existing obstacles.
- The aircraft was flying in an area subject to potential turbulence or downdrafts due to the surrounding terrain.
- A widespread practice among pilots at this aerodrome involves using an off-center trajectory to improve runway visibility, which increases the risk of collision with trees and buildings.