What happened
During a flight test at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport in France, an Airbus A330-300 crashed while undergoing procedures to certify the aircraft's autopilot for category III standards. The mission involved a two-part flight sequence. The initial phase was completed successfully with a landing on runway 15L, followed by a 180-degree turn to prepare for a second takeoff from runway 33R.
During the second takeoff, the crew deviated from the established test procedure. Instead of using the specified Flex 49 power setting, the co-pilot utilized TOGA power. While the initial rotation was successful, the aircraft's pitch increased from 12 to 18 degrees. Shortly after takeoff, the crew attempted to engage the autopilot, but the activation was delayed by two seconds because the first officer was applying nose-down input on the side stick.
As the test progressed, the captain reduced the number one engine thrust to idle and deactivated the hydraulic system as instructed by the flight test order. Upon engagement, the autopilot entered altitude acquisition mode, targeting 2000 feet. This triggered a significant pitch increase to 32 degrees. Consequently, the airspeed dropped to 100 knots, falling below the minimum control speed of 118 knots. The aircraft experienced a loss of roll control, and the captain subsequently reduced the number two engine thrust to idle. The aircraft reached extreme bank and pitch attitudes of 112 degrees left and -43 degrees, respectively. Despite efforts to recover, the aircraft struck the ground at a pitch of approximately -15 degrees. The accident resulted in seven fatalities.
Findings
- The crew utilized TOGA power instead of the prescribed Flex 45 power setting during the second takeoff.
- The autopilot's attempt to reach a pre-set altitude of 2000 feet caused an excessive pitch-up maneuver.
- The aircraft's airspeed fell below the minimum control speed, leading to a loss of roll control and subsequent loss of flight stability.