What happened
On July 7, 2012, a privately operated Cessna 182, registration F-GFGS, was conducting a local flight departing from and returning to Clermont-Ferrand. While cruising, the pilot experienced a sudden, abnormal noise accompanied by intense vibrations felt primarily through the rudder pedals. This was followed by an uncommanded increase in engine RPM from 2,100 to approximately 2,400 RPM.
In response to the engine anomaly, the pilot reduced power and initiated a descent toward the Lacave le Frau private airfield. The pilot executed a left turn to join the downwind leg for runway 13 and performed a pattern to land. During the final approach, the aircraft maintained an excessive speed and a steep descent gradient. With the flaps set at 20 degrees, the aircraft made contact with the ascending section of the runway, resulting in a first bounce, followed by a second bounce before the main impact. The nose gear collapsed, the propeller struck the ground, and the aircraft veered off the runway before flipping onto its back. The aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical anomaly reported during the cruise phase and the subsequent landing technique. Investigators examined the engine, which featured a Continental O-470R engine and a Mac Cauley 2A34C 66-P variable-pitch propeller. While the pilot reported a sudden vibration and RPM increase, the specific origin of the engine malfunction could not be determined. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting approximately 270 hours of fixed-wing flight time, with the most recent engine-reduction training having occurred in March 2012.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an inappropriate approach technique performed with reduced engine power following the detection of an engine anomaly.
- The stress caused by the engine malfunction likely impaired the pilot's ability to accurately estimate and control the aircraft's flight path and descent gradient.