What happened
On July 16, 2011, a Grob G 109 B was performing a takeoff from the Bad Dürkheim airfield, intending to fly to Worms. The pilot, accompanied by one passenger, began the takeoff roll on runway 08 from the taxiway. The aircraft lifted off at approximately 14:49 local time.
Shortly after rotation, the aircraft was struck by a wind gust. The pilot reported a loss of rudder effectiveness while attempting to stabilize the aircraft. Witnesses observed the aircraft sink after liftoff and noted that the pilot attempted to regain a climb, but the aircraft was traveling at an insufficient airspeed. Approximately 200 meters beyond the end of the runway, the aircraft banked sharply to the right and impacted a meadow in a nearly vertical attitude. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft, and two persons sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The BFU examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the flight. The investigation focused on the aircraft's mechanical condition, the meteorological environment, and the flight path. Investigators inspected the engine, including the spark plugs, which showed normal combustion patterns, and checked the fuel system, finding approximately 40 liters of fuel remaining. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials and the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that the annual inspection had been completed recently in June 2011.
Findings
- The aircraft's structural examination revealed no technical defects or mechanical failures.
- Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident included visual flight rules (VFR) with visibility exceeding 10 km and scattered clouds at 4,000 ft.
- The wind was reported as gusty, originating from 150 degrees at 10 knots.
- The primary cause of the accident was the impact with the terrain following a loss of control induced by a wind gust during the initial climb.