What happened
On 28 December 2019, a Fokker DR1 replica, identified as 59DPK, crashed during a local flight at the Valenciennes-Denain aerodrome. The aircraft, a 7/8-scale microlight built by the pilot, was performing its maiden flight. As the aircraft climbed over the end of the grass runway, it entered a left-hand turn. During this maneuver, the microlight experienced an asymmetrical stall on the left side, resulting in a steep, near-vertical nose-down attitude before impacting the ground. The accident resulted in one fatality and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BEA examined wreckage, flight logs, and onboard video footage recorded by a camera mounted on the left wing. Because the aircraft was a homebuilt replica constructed without official technical documentation, the investigation was limited in its ability to rule out structural or flight instability issues. However, the examination of the engine and flight controls showed no mechanical anomalies; the engine was functional, and the aileron controls remained mobile until impact.
Investigators also analyzed audio from the aerodrome and the pilot's onboard video. The footage showed the pilot's chest tilting backward and his mouth remaining open during the stall, while radio communications captured the pilot gasping for air. Medical analysis of the pilot's history revealed advanced coronary artery disease and a recent history of myocardial infarction.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was likely pilot incapacitation caused by an evolving cardiac event.
- The pilot was suffering from an active, small infarction at the time of the flight, which likely led to a sudden loss of control within one to two seconds.
- The aircraft experienced an asymmetrical stall during the initial climb, which led to the fatal impact.
- The aircraft was a homebuilt replica with no available build documentation or prior flight testing records.
Safety action
While microlight pilots are not required to undergo formal aeronautical medical examinations, the BEA notes that all pilots should seek advice from medical professionals, preferably aeronautical doctors, to monitor changes in medical fitness.