Loss of control following aborted landing in Robin DR 400-140 B

Casualties unknown • Laval Entrammes, FR

A pilot lost control of a Robin DR 400-140 B during a go-around attempt after an unstable approach and runway excursion at Laval Entrammes.

What happened

On June 16, 2018, a Robin DR 40 and-140 B, registration F-GGXJ, departed from Laval Entrammes for a flight to Aron. Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet, the pilot observed an orange warning light indicating an alternator failure. To address the issue, the pilot decided to return to the departure airfield.

Due to other aircraft performing integration maneuvers at the aerodrome, the pilot opted to shorten the arrival circuit. This resulted in an approach speed of approximately 150 km/h, which was significantly higher than the recommended approach speed. During the landing roll, as the nose wheel made contact with the runway, the aircraft drifted to the left. Despite efforts to maintain the centerline using rudder and braking, the aircraft exited the paved surface of runway 32.

In an attempt to recover, the pilot initiated a go-around to steer the aircraft back toward the runway centerline. However, during this maneuver, the aircraft entered a stall and collided with the ground near the runway, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an unstable approach and an improper go-around attempt following a runway excursion, driven by the pilot's attempt to expedite the landing due to incoming traffic and an alternator failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-06-16 Robin DR 400-140 B accident near Laval Entrammes, FR?

A pilot lost control of a Robin DR 400-140 B during a go-around attempt after an unstable approach and runway excursion at Laval Entrammes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-06-16 involved a Robin DR 400-140 B, registration F-GGXJ, at Laval Entrammes, FR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an unstable approach and an improper go-around attempt following a runway excursion, driven by the pilot's attempt to expedite the landing due to incoming traffic and an alternator failure.

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