What happened
On 16 September 2018, a Robin DR400-120, registered F-GCRY, was conducting a cross-country flight from Limoges Bellegarde to Poitiers Biard. After performing a go-around at Poitiers Biard at approximately 16:15, the pilot continued the return leg toward Limoges. During the cruise phase, the aircraft maintained an altitude between 2,100 and 2,500 feet. At 16:18, the pilot transitioned from the Poitiers CTR frequency to the flight information sector (FIS) and provided the requested transponder code. No further radio communications were recorded. At approximately 16:30, the aircraft struck the ground in the vicinity of its last known radar position, resulting in one fatality and the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BEA conducted examinations of the wreckage both at the accident site and in a hangar. The investigation established that the aircraft was intact upon impact and struck the terrain at high speed with a nose-down pitch exceeding 45 degrees. Technical inspections of the flight controls—including the elevator, aileron, rudder, and flaps—showed no malfunctions or discontinuities. The engine was operating at high torque at the moment of impact. Furthermore, the aircraft was within its approved center of gravity envelope and below its maximum allowable weight. While medical examinations of the pilot found no evidence of toxins or medication, the investigators could not rule out sudden incapacitation.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude while cruising at approximately 2,200 feet.
- No technical malfunction or mechanical failure was identified to explain the steep descent or the impact.
- Meteorological conditions at the time were CAVOK with light winds and low turbulence.