History of the Event
The aircraft was one of 56 participating in the "Grass Cockpit Tour," a rally visiting five grass-runway airfields in France and Belgium. The tour began in Berck sur Mer, France, and arrived at Saint-Hubert airfield (EBSH) between 09:00 and 10:30 UTC, all landing on Runway 05. The runway condition was affected by previous days' weather; a NOTAM had been published. One pilot reported a long landing roll due to wet grass and the downslope of Runway 05.
After lunch and refueling, the first aircraft departed around 12:00 UTC. Wind conditions allowed use of both Runways 05 and 32. However, the taxiway for Runway 32 was excessively wet, though no rain had fallen in the prior two days. To avoid deterioration, a decision was made: lighter aircraft with sufficient power used Runway 05 (shorter); heavier aircraft or those with less power used Runway 32R (800 m plus 100 m strip, mown the day before). A special taxi procedure for Runway 32R involved a follow-me car leading aircraft across Runway 05 for engine power runs, then back-taxiing on Runway 32 to the takeoff area.
The accident aircraft was refueled with 74 liters of fuel. At 15:07 UTC, during its takeoff ground run from the grass runway, the airplane bounced. It slowed and deviated from its path. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft collided with the perimeter fence, then crashed 15 meters beyond. All four occupants exited before the aircraft caught fire and was totally destroyed. No injuries were reported.
Cause
The accident was caused by the loss of control of the airplane during the ground run.
Contributing Factors
- Late decision to abort the take-off.
- Aircraft weight most probably higher than calculated.
- No correct handover of flight controls (co-pilot intervened to push the throttle forward).
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-28-181 Archer II, serial number 28-7890345. No further details on maintenance or airworthiness were provided in the source.
Meteorological and Airfield Information
Runway 32R was 800 m long with an additional 100 m strip. The grass runway condition was wet due to prior precipitation, and a NOTAM was active. The source does not specify exact wind, temperature, or visibility conditions at the time of the accident.
Injuries and Damage
No injuries among the four occupants. The aircraft was totally destroyed by post-crash fire.
Investigation
The Belgian Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU-2016-06) conducted the investigation. The final report was issued on 8 September 2017.