What happened
On 25 January 2019, a Cessna 207, registered F-OSIA, departed Cayenne-Félix Éboué airport in French Guiana for a flight to Maripasoula. The flight was an own-account transport operation intended to deliver food for a catering company. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot experienced a reduction in engine power. Unable to maintain the climb, the pilot opted for a precautionary landing in a nearby area known to be clear of obstacles.
During the landing attempt, the aircraft struck a 1.5-meter-high bank at high speed. The impact caused the aircraft to turn over, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and one injury to the pilot.
The investigation
The BEA investigation focused on the aircraft's performance, the engine's condition, and the loading procedures. Investigators found that the aircraft was significantly overloaded, with a takeoff weight of approximately 1,938 kg, exceeding the manufacturer's maximum permissible takeoff weight of 1,72 and placing the center of gravity outside the authorized aft limit. Additionally, the cargo was not secured.
Regarding the powerplant, while no major mechanical failure was identified, investigators discovered that the mechanical fuel pump had been incorrectly adjusted to a setting that was too lean. This adjustment, which may have been left uncorrected since a previous maintenance inspection, could lead to a decrease in engine power. The investigation also noted that the pilot had performed a "rolling takeoff" and that the auxiliary fuel pump was not in the ON position.
Findings
- The aircraft was overweight by approximately 215 kg and had an unsafe aft center of gravity.
- The cargo was not properly secured within the cabin.
- The mechanical fuel pump was improperly adjusted, which likely contributed to a reduction in engine power.
- There was a lack of coordination and shared responsibility between the pilot and the instructing party regarding weight and balance compliance.
Safety action
- The BEA previously recommended that the DGAC ensure aircraft hire companies and pilots inform instructing parties of their specific responsibilities regarding the organization and safety of own-account flights.