What happened
On August 15, 2023, a ROBIN DR400-140B, registration F-GMXY, was conducting a cross-country flight from Loudun to La Baule-Escoublac. The pilot, accompanied by two passengers, departed Loudun at 10:55 local time. After initially climbing to 2,000 ft, the pilot requested a lower altitude of 1,700 ft due to cloud cover.
After communicating with Nantes tower and exiting the Control Traffic Region (CTR), the pilot attempted to contact the Nantes Flight Information Service (FIS) but inadvertently selected an incorrect radio frequency. Shortly after, the aircraft changed course toward the Loire river. GNSS data indicates that north of the Cordemais power station, the aircraft entered a tight right-hand turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft' $\text{altitude}$ decreased rapidly, and the flight path ended with a high-energy impact with the water. The wreckage was recovered from the Loire estuary near Lavau-sur-Loire.
The investigation
The investigation involved the analysis of wreckage, GNSS flight data from the on-board GTN750Xi computer, and time-lapse imagery from a nearby power station webcam. The examination of the engine suggested the aircraft was likely operating at the moment of impact.
Meteorological data from Météo-France revealed that a bank of sea clouds was moving inland, lowering the ceiling to approximately 700 ft with light precipitation. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training records, noting that while the pilot held a valid PPL(A), he had no specific training or experience in blind navigation.
Findings
- The pilot likely entered a cloud layer, leading to a loss of external visual references.
- The loss of visual cues likely caused spatial disorientation, as the pilot was not trained in instrument or blind navigation.
- The aircraft entered a steep, nose-down attitude during a right-hand turn, resulting in a high rate of sink that left insufficient time for recovery before hitting the water.
- The pilot's desire to reach the destination despite deteriorating weather may have contributed to the decision to continue the flight in adverse conditions.
Safety action
Following the accident, the Loudun flying club implemented new training requirements, mandating that pilots undergo training specifically dedicated to blind navigation. Additionally, the club now verifies a pilot's aptitude in blind navigation during the license revalidation and renewal process.