What happened
On February 21, 2019, a VL3 B microlight, registration 80AFQ, took off from the Abbeville airfield for a local flight. Shortly after departure, the aircraft entered a wooded area approximately four kilometers west of the airfield, resulting in a collision with trees. The impact was high-energy, causing significant damage to the aircraft and resulting in the death of the pilot and the destruction of the aircraft.
At the time of takeoff, the weather at the airfield appeared clear, with a blue sky visible from the hangar. However, a maritime fog phenomenon, known as a sea breeze entry, was rapidly advancing from the coast. As the aircraft climbed, it encountered low clouds and reduced visibility. In an attempt to maintain visual contact with the ground, the pilot likely descended to a very low altitude. While performing a turn, the aircraft struck trees at a height of approximately 15 meters while flying in a nearly horizontal trajectory.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft wreckage, meteorological data, and witness testimonies. Physical examination of the 80AFQ showed that the engine power lever was at full throttle and the fuel selector was set to the right tank. The aircraft was equipped with a fixed landing gear and a ballistic parachute, though the parachute had not been deployed. No technical failures were identified in the aircraft's systems.
Meteorological analysis confirmed that a significant maritime fog bank was moving inland. While the airfield initially appeared clear, the fog was advancing rapidly. Witnesses from the local aero club described the arrival of the fog as a "large wave" that moved from the southwest. Video footage from another aircraft confirmed that the fog layer was actively encroaching on the region during the time of the accident.
Findings
- The pilot likely did not check the most recent meteorological updates before departure.
- The aircraft encountered a sudden maritime fog entry, which caused a rapid drop in visibility and cloud ceilings.
- To avoid losing visual references with the ground, the pilot likely flew at an extremely low altitude.
- The pilot'imminent loss of visual references during a turn led to the collision with trees.