What happened
On August 30, 2015, a Cessna 172R, registration F-HYCB, was conducting a local flight from Lille Marcq-en-Baroeul for personal use. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and three passengers. During the approach to the grass runway 08(2), the pilot utilized a 30° flaps configuration with an estimated approach speed between 70 and 75 knots.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced twice, prompting the pilot to initiate a go-around. During the climb, the pilot adjusted the flaps to 20°. As the aircraft climbed, the stall warning activated initially, and then sounded continuously as the pilot attempted to maneuver around a hedge located at the end of the runway. While performing a left turn to avoid the obstacle, the aircraft entered a stall and collided with the ground. The aircraft slid approximately 30 meters before coming to a stop 175 meters beyond the threshold of runway 26. The aircraft sustained heavy damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's configuration and weight parameters. The elevator trim was found in a 1/3 nose-down position, and the flaps were retracted. The aircraft's estimated mass during the go-around was near its maximum takeoff weight of 1,111 kg. The pilot estimated the total passenger weight to be approximately 290 kg, with 120 liters of fuel on board.
Investigators reviewed the flight manual, which recommends an approach speed of 62 knots in 30° flaps configuration. The manual also specifies that if obstacles must be cleared during a go-around, the flaps should be retracted to 10° while maintaining a safe speed. At the time of the accident, the grass runway was wet due to recent rainfall, and the wind was from the south at approximately 6 knots.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating at a high mass, near its maximum takeoff weight.
- The short acceleration phase on a wet grass runway prevented the aircraft from gaining sufficient airspeed to climb safely.
- The aircraft entered a stall during a left turn while the pilot was attempting to avoid a hedge.