What happened
On 15 July 2019, a CH77 Ranabot microlight, registration 54AXP, was conducting a training flight at the Grand Couronnego microlight base in Meurthe-et-Moselle. The pilot, who was also the owner of the aircraft, took off from runway 06 for a local flight in wind conditions ranging from 10 to 20 knots.
After completing two low-level circuit patterns at altitudes between 100 and 250 feet, the aircraft drifted to the right of the runway during its final approach. The pilot attempted to transition into a hover over a prepared strip adjacent to the runway. As the aircraft approached the ground, the pilot increased power to maintain altitude. This increase in power caused the aircraft to yaw significantly to the right due to increased counter-rotating torque. In an attempt to correct the situation, the pilot reduced power, causing the aircraft to lose altitude and yaw to the left. The left skid of the microlight struck the bank of a ditch, causing the aircraft to tip over onto its right side. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, and the aircraft was substantially damaged.
The investigation
The BEA examined the aircraft's engine computer, which provided data correlating the flight path with video recordings from an instrument-mounted camera. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within the permitted limits. The aircraft was carrying sandbags and wood pellets to simulate the weight of a passenger for training purposes.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience and the regulatory environment. While the pilot held the necessary authorizations for commercial sightseeing flights, he had very limited solo experience, with only approximately five hours of solo flight time on this specific aircraft type. The investigation also noted that the wind strength was near the aircraft's demonstrated limits for hovering.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a loss of yaw control during the transition to a hover, as the pilot failed to sufficiently counter the increased torque with rudder inputs after increasing power.
- The pilot's lack of experience in managing torque effects during high-power maneuvers contributed to the loss of control.
- Prevailing wind conditions, which were near the aircraft's operational limits for hovering, made maintaining control more difficult.
- The pilot may have been under significant psychological pressure to begin a new commercial sightseeing venture, which may have influenced his decision to fly in challenging conditions despite his known apprehension.