Structural failure leads to fatal ultralight accident in Germany

Casualties unknown • Gerbach, DE

An overloaded **EV 97 Eurostar 2000 R** experienced mid-air structural failure during flight through heavy clouds and rain, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

On August 26, 2013, a Dutch-registered EV 97 Eurostar 2000 R was conducting a return flight from Tannheim to Grefrath. During the flight, the crew reported encountering a cloud base and subsequently decided to continue flying above the overcast layer toward Mannheim. Air traffic services provided warnings regarding deteriorating weather conditions north of Stuttgart, but the crew continued the flight.

Radar data tracked the aircraft performing several maneuvers, including changes in altitude and speed, and an S-shaped flight path. Near the accident site, the aircraft's heading changed to North, and the flight path showed a significant left turn. At approximately 11:50 AM, the aircraft was last detected at FL 67. The aircraft subsequently crashed in a forested area near Gerbach, where the wreckage was found widely distributed. Two fatalities occurred as a result of the impact.

The investigation

The BFU examined the wreckage, engine data, and meteorological conditions. The investigation included the analysis of engine monitoring data from a FLYdat device, which showed an engine overspeed at the time of the accident. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting several unauthorized modifications, including a modified trim lever, a specialized tailwheel, and spring reinforcements on the landing gear. Furthermore, the investigation found that the aircraft's wings had sustained previous damage that had been addressed with unauthorized surface repairs.

Findings

  • The aircraft was significantly overloaded, with a takeoff weight of 540.2 kg, exceeding the maximum takeoff weight of 450 kg by approximately 20%.
  • The pilot experienced a loss of control likely due to spatial disorientation (vertigo) while attempting to maneuver around building cloud towers in poor visibility.
  • The aircraft's structure was weakened by pre-existing wing damage and unrecorded repairs.
  • The pilot's situational awareness and experience were insufficient for operating within the encountered weather conditions.
  • The pilot's decision-making led to workload overload in the cockpit as the crew attempted to navigate through deteriorating weather.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the aircraft entering an uncontrolled flight state in poor visibility conditions, leading to structural failure. Contributing factors included significant aircraft overloading, pre-existing structural damage to the wings, and the pilot's lack of sufficient experience and situational awareness for flying in such weather.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-08-26 Evektor Aerotechnik a.s. / accident near Gerbach, DE?

An overloaded **EV 97 Eurostar 2000 R** experienced mid-air structural failure during flight through heavy clouds and rain, resulting in two fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-08-26 involved a Evektor Aerotechnik a.s. /, at Gerbach, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the aircraft entering an uncontrolled flight state in poor visibility conditions, leading to structural failure. Contributing factors included significant aircraft overloading, pre-existing structural damage to the wings, and the pilot's lack of sufficient experience and situational…

Loading the flight search…