What happened
On 17 June 2017, a Skyleader 200 ultralight aircraft, identified as 47-XW, was performing a local flight near the Villefranche-de-Rouergue aerodrome. Following a rally, the pilot and a passenger began a series of flight maneuvers at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet. The flight sequence included five intentional stall exercises.
During the fifth and final stall attempt, the aircraft entered a rapid right-hand rotation, characterized by more than three complete rolls around its axis accompanied by significant pitch movements. The aircraft struck a field with a steep nose-down attitude and came to rest against a hedge. The onboard parachute was not deployed. The crash resulted in two fatalities, as both the pilot and the passenger were killed upon impact.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and analyzed data from the aircraft's Dynon Avionics Skyview D1000 system and a Garmin GPSMAP695 unit. The engine parameters showed no anomalies, and the aircraft's structure was found to be intact prior to the impact. Analysis of the autopilot servo controls allowed investigators to track control inputs during the maneuvers.
Data from the first four stalls showed no significant roll motion, though the second stall involved a right roll of approximately 45 degrees. During the final stall, the aircraft experienced a high load factor of 4 g. While the landing gear appeared to be extended, the exact position of the flaps could not be confirmed. The investigation also reviewed the pilots' backgrounds, noting that both individuals held various flight licenses and significant experience in ultralight and aerobatic flight.