Fatal microlight accident near Dieuze-Guéblange aerodrome

Casualties unknown • French is the work of reference., FR

An Ikarus C42B microlight crashed into a tree and caught fire during a local flight in France, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

On 22 September 2022, an Ikarus C42B microlight, registration 57BPJ, was conducting a local flight near the Dieuze-Guéblange restricted-use aerodrome in France. Shortly before the accident, the pilot had contacted his association's treasurer to confirm he was taking off for a short flight with a passenger, noting that the aircraft had 30 litres of fuel on board.

During the flight, the aircraft struck an isolated poplar tree, approximately 20 metres in height, which tore off the tip of the right wing. Following this impact with the vegetation, the microlight collided with the ground in a field located roughly 1,200 metres south of the start of runway 05. A post-impact fire broke out, destroying the aircraft. The pilot and passenger sustained two fatalities.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the collision and the condition of the aircraft. Investigators examined the wreckage, noting that the fire had significantly limited the ability to inspect certain components. The examination of the propeller suggested it was either not rotating or rotating at a very low speed at the time of the ground impact.

Regarding the aircraft's mechanical state, the Ikarus C42B was found to be within weight and balance limits, and maintenance records showed a recent inspection had been completed less than a month prior. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data, which indicated clear skies, good visibility, and light winds, providing conditions suitable for visual flight.

Medical examinations of the pilot revealed a pre-existing heart condition involving significant coronary stenoses. While the investigation could not definitively prove the cause of the flight path deviation, this medical factor was noted as a possibility.

Findings

  • The aircraft's right wing tip struck a tree before the subsequent ground impact.
  • The post-impact fire caused extensive damage to the fuselage, wings, tail units, and landing gear.
  • The environment surrounding the aerodrome offered many suitable fields for a forced landing, making the collision with the isolated tree unexpected.
  • A possible pilot incapacitation related to a pre-existing heart condition could not be ruled out as a factor in the accident.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a tree and subsequently the ground, leading to a fatal fire; while the exact cause of the deviation from a safe flight path remains undetermined, a pre-existing cardiac condition in the pilot may have contributed to the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2022-09-22 Ikarus C42B accident near French is the work of reference., FR?

An Ikarus C42B microlight crashed into a tree and caught fire during a local flight in France, resulting in two fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2022-09-22 involved a Ikarus C42B, registration 57BPJ, at French is the work of reference., FR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a tree and subsequently the ground, leading to a fatal fire; while the exact cause of the deviation from a safe flight path remains undetermined, a pre-existing cardiac condition in the pilot may have contributed to the event.

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