What happened
On 6 September 2021, at approximately 19:45, an APCO Aviation THRUST M paramotor was conducting a local flight near Trébrivan, France. A witness observing the aircraft from less than one kilometer away reported hearing the engine sputter, followed by a significant decrease in motor power. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft entered a rapid descent, appearing to enter a spin as if the pilot had applied heavy control inputs. The aircraft descended quickly through the treeline and collided with the ground.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft, the pilot's credentials, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The aircraft, identified as 95-WG, was found in a field with the wing intact and the rigging lines and controls remaining continuous. However, the investigation noted that the fuel tank had been punctured by a motor component during the impact. Notably, the spark plug's power cable had been cut, and the spark plug itself was wrapped in insulating tape.
Regarding the pilot's status, the 43-year-old pilot held a valid Part-66 aircraft maintenance license but did not possess the required microlight pilot certificate for this type of flight. Furthermore, the paramotor's identification card had expired in 2013, and the aircraft had been struck off the register at that time; the pilot had acquired the wing after it was no longer officially registered.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of motor power during the flight.
- Meteorological data indicated that wind speeds had increased from 4 knots to 8 knots just prior to the accident, with gusts reaching up to 15 knots.
- The wing experienced an asymmetric stall during the descent.
- The pilot was fatally injured in the collision.