Runway overrun during introductory flight in Robin DR400-160

Casualties unknown • French is the work of reference., FR

A Robin DR400-160 aircraft overran the runway at Saint-Quentin - Roupy aerodrome during an introductory flight, resulting in substantial aircraft damage and one minor injury.

What happened

On 23 October 2023, a Robin DR400-160, registration F-GABZ, was performing the third of three scheduled introductory flights at the Saint-Quentin - Roupy aerodrome. The flight, operated by Aéroclub de l’Aisne, carried the pilot and two passengers.

Following two previous successful departures from runway 14, the pilot elected to use runway 04 due to a change in wind direction. During the takeoff roll, the pilot applied full power and intentionally lifted the weight off the nose wheel to assist acceleration. Although the initial speed increase appeared normal, the aircraft reached a rotation speed of approximately 90 km/ $ ext{h}$—below the manual's recommended 100 km/ $ ext{h}$—and failed to lift off. The pilot maintained a pitch-up attitude in expectation of further acceleration, causing the aircraft to overrun the end of the runway. The aircraft crossed a raised country road, briefly became airborne for about 40 meters, and then experienced a hard landing in a nearby field. The accident resulted in one minor injury and substantial damage to the aircraft's nose gear, right main landing gear, propeller, and right wing.

The investigation

The BEA examined the wreckage, the aerodrome conditions, and the pilot's actions. Investigators found no mechanical failures in the flight controls or the engine. The investigation noted that the runway surface was wet grass following recent rainfall. While the aircraft's weight and balance were within limits, the investigation focused on the takeoff configuration and the pilot's decision-making regarding the runway choice and takeoff procedures.

Findings

Two primary factors degraded the takeoff performance: the wet grass runway following recent precipitation and the likely use of a clean flap configuration instead of the required takeoff setting. The pilot's decision to rotate early further increased the required takeoff distance.

Contributing factors included:

  • The decision to utilize runway 04 given the degraded surface conditions.
  • The pilot's failure to complete the before-takeoff checklist, which may have prevented the detection of the incorrect flap setting.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to achieve sufficient lift due to degraded performance caused by a wet grass runway and the likely use of retracted flaps, compounded by an early rotation by the pilot.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-10-23 ROBIN DR400-160 accident near French is the work of reference., FR?

A Robin DR400-160 aircraft overran the runway at Saint-Quentin - Roupy aerodrome during an introductory flight, resulting in substantial aircraft damage and one minor injury.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-10-23 involved a ROBIN DR400-160, registration F-GABZ, at French is the work of reference., FR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to achieve sufficient lift due to degraded performance caused by a wet grass runway and the likely use of retracted flaps, compounded by an early rotation by the pilot.

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