What happened
On 25 September 2018, a pilot was conducting a cross-country flight in a Jodel D2-0 microlight, identified 54AUJ, from Nantes Héric to Nancy Essey. During the flight, the pilot contacted the Auxerre Branches aerodrome to report a low fuel level and a malfunctioning fuel gauge. Approximately eight minutes from the aerodrome, the pilot declared a precautionary field landing.
After landing in a field near Aillant-sur-Tholon, the pilot contacted the aerodrome tower to state he had landed safely and intended to take off again after refueling. He obtained fuel from a nearby service station via a jerry can. Without notifying air traffic services of his departure, the pilot attempted a second takeoff from the same field. During the initial climb, the aircraft entered a steep left bank and collided with the ground. The pilot was fatally injured, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation examined the wreckage, which was found overturned in a field. Mechanical inspections of the Jodel D2-0 revealed no technical malfunctions; the flight controls, flaps, and engine fuel supply were all functioning correctly.
Data recovered from a tablet used by the pilot provided a reconstruction of the flight path. The analysis showed that while the pilot had landed into the wind, the subsequent takeoff was performed in the opposite direction, resulting in a significant tailwind component. GNSS data indicated that after liftoff, the aircraft's ground speed steadily decreased until the loss of control occurred. Witnesses at the scene noted that the pilot appeared to be in a hurry and that strong wind gusts were present at the time of the accident.