What happened
On 29 May 2023, a Piper PA46-500TP Meridian, registered N149C, was performing a VFR cross-country flight from La Môle airport to Limoges-Bellegarde. During the takeoff roll on runway 06, the pilot noticed that the aircraft was not accelerating normally. Despite noticing the sluggish performance, the pilot continued the takeoff run.
The aircraft eventually lifted off at the displaced threshold of the opposite runway, but it lacked sufficient airspeed to climb. The aircraft struck small trees approximately 190 meters beyond the runway and the pilot performed a precautionary landing in a nearby field. Upon impact with the ground, the landing gear collapsed, and the aircraft slid approximately 30 meters before spinning and coming to a stop. The aircraft was destroyed, though the pilot and passenger evacuated safely.
The investigation
The BEA examined the wreckage, the aircraft's maintenance and flight history, and airport security footage. Investigators found that the aircraft's fuel tanks were full and the flight controls were functional. Analysis of security cameras confirmed that the aircraft covered significantly less distance during the takeoff run than the manufacturer's performance charts predicted for the given conditions.
The investigation also focused on the cockpit configuration. The throttle friction lever was found in the minimum friction position. While the manufacturer stated they had no evidence of the throttle moving backward due to friction settings, several owners of the same aircraft type reported similar experiences. The pilot also noted that he had not performed a takeoff briefing prior to the flight.
Findings
Several factors contributed to the accident:
- The pilot failed to monitor engine parameters, specifically torque, during the takeoff roll.
- The pilot did not use the throttle friction lock, which may have allowed the throttle to move backward unexpectedly.
- The pilot did not perform a pre-takeoff briefing, leaving him without a pre-established action plan for an abnormal situation.
- The pilot experienced hesitation in deciding to reject the takeoff despite recognizing the abnormal acceleration after the first 200 meters of the roll.