Fatal collision with ground during initial climb at Oyonnax-Arbent

Casualties unknown • Arbent, FR

A POTTIER P180S aircraft crashed into a residential area during takeoff, resulting in the death of the pilot and the destruction of the aircraft.

What happened

On 16 September 2020, a POTTIER P180S, registration F-PYKT, departed from the Oyonnax-Arbent aerodrome for a cross-country flight to Pont-sur-Yonne. During the initial climb from runway 04, the aircraft failed to achieve sufficient altitude and continued on a straight path over a residential area. Witnesses observed the aircraft climbing at a very low rate and flying at a low height over nearby houses. The aircraft eventually struck a fence and a tree, causing the engine to separate from the airframe and the aircraft to capsize. A fire broke out upon impact, and the pilot was fatally injured.

The investigation

The BEA examined the wreckage, which was found in a garden approximately 1,260 meters from the end of the runway. The investigation noted that the aircraft had struck metal fence posts with a slight right bank before hitting a tree. Due to the fire, the condition of the engine and certain control linkages was difficult to assess, though the rudder and elevator trim remained functional.

Investigators reviewed the pilot's experience, noting he was a 44-year-old co-owner of the aircraft with 240 flight hours logged as of August 2019. The investigation also considered the aircraft's loading, as the pilot was transporting significant professional musical equipment, including a synthesizer and speakers. The aircraft was likely operating near its maximum permissible take-off weight.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating in high temperature (26°C) and at an altitude of 1,755 ft, conditions that significantly increase take-off distance and reduce the rate of climb.
  • The aircraft was likely near its maximum take-off weight due to the inclusion of heavy professional equipment and personal luggage.
  • The aircraft's low speed during the climb likely prevented the pilot from executing a turn to avoid obstacles, forcing a flight path through a residential area.
  • The investigation considered the possibility that the aircraft was flying on the back side of the power curve during the climb, which is consistent with witness accounts of a slow, struggling ascent.

Probable cause

The aircraft likely failed to achieve the required climb performance due to being near its maximum takeoff weight in high-temperature conditions, leading to an inability to maneuver away from obstacles during the initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2020-09-16 POTTIER P180S accident near Arbent, FR?

A POTTIER P180S aircraft crashed into a residential area during takeoff, resulting in the death of the pilot and the destruction of the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2020-09-16 involved a POTTIER P180S, registration F-PYKT, at Arbent, FR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft likely failed to achieve the required climb performance due to being near its maximum takeoff weight in high-temperature conditions, leading to an inability to maneuver away from obstacles during the initial climb.

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