Incident Overview
On June 7, 2008, at approximately 11:55 local time, a single-engine Avions Pierre Robin DR 400/160 departed runway 24 from the Altena-Hegenscheid airfield (EDKD) for a cross-country flight to Marl-Loemühle. The aircraft was equipped with a Lycoming O-320 D2A engine and had a total airframe time of 1,856 hours. The pilot, a 43-year-old private pilot, held valid licenses and medical certification.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after takeoff, during initial climb at an altitude of approximately 25 meters, the engine failed. The aircraft deviated to the right and impacted a wooded hillside located roughly 300 meters from the airfield, approximately 30 degrees to the right of the runway centerline. The impact destroyed the forward fuselage and left wing, resulting in fatal injuries to the pilot. No fire occurred post-impact.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel selector valve was positioned between the right wing tank (which contained fuel) and the main tank (which was empty). This intermediate position allowed air to enter the fuel system, causing engine failure. The carburetor, water separator, and electric fuel pump were found to be dry. Although the mechanical fuel pump and ignition systems were functional, the lack of fuel flow was attributed to the valve setting.
Contributing Factors
The investigation noted that the aircraft's fuel quantity indicators were inaccurate, displaying a higher level than actually present in the main tank. This erroneous reading may have led the pilot to select an empty tank. Additionally, the terrain in the departure direction consisted of wooded hills with limited suitable emergency landing areas, forcing the pilot to attempt a maneuver over unsuitable ground.