What happened
On 20 February 2017, a Piper PA-28-161 Warrior II, registered F-OGPJ, was involved in a fatal accident near Petit-Bourg, Guadeloupe. The pilot, an experienced airline captain and flight instructor with over 6,800 flight hours, departed Pointe-à-Pitre Le Raizet airport for a local flight. After flying south toward Goyave Capesterre, the pilot turned north toward a residence belonging to a former close acquaintance.
During a U-turn maneuver, the pilot descended to a very low altitude and deactivated the aircraft's transponder. A witness observed the aircraft flying at an extremely low height over a nearby building before hearing the engine power increase. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft struck the house, which was situated on a slope. The impact was high-energy, with the aircraft's left wing striking a concrete pillar, followed by the right wing striking a second pillar, before the fuselage collided with the wall of the dwelling.
The investigation
The BEA examined the wreckage and flight data to determine the cause of the impact. The investigation found that the aircraft's flight controls and movable surfaces were intact. At the time of impact, the engine was producing high torque, the throttle was near the full position, and the elevator trim was set for a nose-down attitude. The flaps were extended to the 10° position.
Investigators also looked into the pilot's recent personal history. Evidence indicated the pilot had been experiencing significant psychological distress following the end of a long-term relationship. This distress had reportedly affected his daily life and well-being in the months leading up to the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft's path and the deactivation of the transponder indicated a deliberate maneuver toward the residence.
- The investigation could not definitively conclude if the collision was an intentional act or the result of an uncontrolled go-around that failed to clear obstacles due to degraded climb performance.
- The pilot was experiencing personal difficulties that may have impacted his mental state, though the investigation noted the difficulty pilots face in reporting such issues due to concerns regarding medical certification.
Safety action
- The BEA recommended that airline operators and the families of pilots promote the use of peer support groups. This is intended to provide a confidential environment for pilots to discuss mental health and personal issues without the immediate fear of losing medical fitness certification.