What happened
On July 15, 2022, at approximately 12:24 UTC, a DynAero MCR-01 ultralight aircraft was performing a non-commercial cross-country flight from the ULM Aerodrome of Zuienkerke (EBZU) toward the Aerodrome of Ursel (EBUL). While cruising en route, the aircraft encountered an unexpected disturbance. In response to the instability, the pilot activated the aircraft's Ballistic Rescue System. Following the deployment of the parachute, the aircraft descended into an urban area of Bruges, Belgium, making a nose-first impact. The pilot sustained 1 minor injury during the event.
The investigation
The Air Accident Investigation Unit (Belgium) initiated a safety investigation into the loss of control in-flight. As of the current progress statement, the investigation is in the analysis and report-writing phase. The AAIU(Be) is coordinating with international aviation authorities, including the BEA and DGTA/DGLV, to review the draft findings. The investigation aims to determine the exact nature of the disturbance that necessitated the emergency parachute deployment.