What happened
On September 20, 1999, a Robin DR300-180/R departed from runway 11 at the Stade aerodrome for a sightseeing flight. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and three passengers. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft accelerated at a low angle of climb before the pilot abruptly pulled the aircraft into a steep ascent. This maneuver caused the aircraft to lose airspeed and stall at an altitude of approximately 80 meters. The aircraft subsequently banked sharply to the right and impacted the ground at a pitch angle of approximately 80 degrees. The impact, which occurred in a soft, marshy field about 1,300 meters from the runway threshold, resulted in four fatalities and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the aircraft, the pilot's records, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The aircraft was found to be in a valid state of airworthiness, having undergone its annual inspection in August 1999. The engine had approximately 1,586 hours since its last overhaul, and the aircraft was equipped with standard instrumentation and a UHF radio. Meteorological conditions were clear with visibility exceeding 10 kilometers and a light southeasterly wind.
Investigators found no mechanical defects on the aircraft that could account for the accident. The pilot's medical fitness was confirmed through autopsy, and the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within permissible limits. However, witness statements indicated that the pilot was known for performing aggressive takeoffs, often referred to as "Kavalierstarts," and had previously received warnings regarding this behavior.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's decision to initiate an excessively steep climb instead of maintaining a standard takeoff airspeed.
- This maneuver caused the aircraft to drop below its minimum flying speed, leading to an aerodynamic stall and a subsequent roll into the ground.