Fatal Crash of Robin DR 400/180 Following Engine Power Loss and Wind Conditions

Casualties unknown • Segelfluggelände Rheinstetten, DE

A private flight from Rheinstetten resulted in the deaths of four people after an aircraft lost altitude and struck trees during takeoff.

What happened

On May 30, 2012, at 17:12 local time, a DR 400/180 aircraft departed from the Rheinstetten glider airfield for a private pleasure flight. The pilot was accompanied by three passengers. Witnesses observed the aircraft lift off from runway 02, but noted that the climb appeared slower than usual. During the initial climb, the aircraft's nose dipped several times, and the plane subsequently veered to the left.

As the aircraft flew over the trees adjacent to the runway, it turned further left and disappeared from view. The aircraft collided with trees, struck the ground, and was destroyed by a post-impact fire. All four fatalities occurred as a result of the impact.

The investigation

The BFU investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, engine components, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The engine, a Lycoming-O-360-A1A, was completely disassembled. Investigators found that the spark plugs showed a heavy, sooty appearance, indicating a rich fuel-air mixture.

Meteorological data revealed a 6-knot headwind component was not present; instead, there was a 6-knot tailwind, which increased the required takeoff distance by approximately 30%. The investigation also reviewed the airfield's operating procedures, noting that while flight operations had been suspended earlier that day due to thunderstorms, the specific takeoff was permitted because qualified personnel were present on-site to supervise.

Findings

  • The investigation determined that the engine was operating with reduced power due to the carburetor heat being left on during takeoff. This caused a rich fuel-air mixture and suboptimal combustion.
  • A 6-knot tailwind significantly extended the takeoff roll, leaving the aircraft with insufficient energy for a safe climb.
  • The combination of reduced engine performance and the tailwind caused the aircraft to enter an accelerated stall (overstressed flight state) at a low altitude while attempting to clear the trees.
  • The pilot attempted to maneuver away from the obstacle, which led to the loss of control.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the aircraft entering an accelerated stall at low altitude after the pilot lost sufficient climb performance due to the simultaneous effects of engine power reduction from engaged carburetor heat and a significant tailwind.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2012-05-30 Avions Pierre Robin DR 400/180 R accident near Segelfluggelände Rheinstetten, DE?

A private flight from Rheinstetten resulted in the deaths of four people after an aircraft lost altitude and struck trees during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2012-05-30 involved a Avions Pierre Robin DR 400/180 R, at Segelfluggelände Rheinstetten, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the aircraft entering an accelerated stall at low altitude after the pilot lost sufficient climb performance due to the simultaneous effects of engine power reduction from engaged carburetor heat and a significant tailwind.

Loading the flight search…