What happened
On October 7, 2016, at approximately 15:15 local time, a Zenair Zodiac CH 650EI ultralight, identified as 71-PU, was performing a left-hand circuit pattern at the Mâcon–Charnay aerodrome. The pilot departed from runway 35 at 15:07 for a local flight. Radio communications indicated that the flight was proceeding normally, with the pilot reporting arrival at the downwind leg and subsequently the base leg of the pattern.
During the base leg, witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft enter a steep dive. The aircraft struck the ground approximately 1.25 NM south of the runway 3-5 threshold and caught fire upon impact. The collision resulted in the death of the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the wreckage, which was found intact and concentrated at the crash site. Examination of the 71-PU revealed no technical failures capable of explaining the accident. Evidence suggested the aircraft first struck an obstacle with its right wing before being projected against a railway ballast with significant energy. At the moment of ground impact, the engine was rotating and providing torque, and the aircraft was in a steep nose-down attitude with a left bank.
The pilot, a 74-year-old experienced flyer with approximately 600 to 700 total flight hours, had been flying the aircraft since 2014. While the aircraft was equipped with a ballistic parachute, it was not found deployed. Investigators also noted that while the engine's carburetors were subject to potential icing conditions due to the ambient temperature, the investigation could not confirm if icing played a role.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a loss of control during the base leg of the circuit.
- Witnesses observed the aircraft descending rapidly in a dive immediately following a turn.
- No mechanical or technical malfunctions were identified in the wreckage.
- The investigation could not determine if a medical event involving the pilot contributed to the loss of control.