What happened
On September 17, 2023, a Cessna F 182Q was preparing for departure from the Bamberg-Breitenau airfield. The pilot, flying solo, intended to return to Hof-Plauen. During the taxi phase, the pilot communicated with the tower, noting that a glider launch was also imminent. To accommodate the glider, the pilot decided to begin the takeoff roll immediately.
Instead of taxiing left to align with runway 03 and then backtracking to the start of runway 21, the pilot turned right from taxiway A, positioning the aircraft at the far end of runway 21. This left only approximately 190 meters of paved surface available for the takeoff. Although the air traffic controller issued two commands to stop, the aircraft had already begun its takeoff roll toward a heading of 212°.
As the aircraft reached the end of the paved area, it lifted off but failed to gain sufficient altitude. The aircraft flew just above the 2.5-meter-high approach lighting for runway 03 before the right wing dipped. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground approximately 80 meters beyond the end of the paved runway, causing the right wingtip to break off. The propeller then struck vegetation in a nearby ditch, leading the aircraft to impact the ground with its nose and right main gear. The aircraft overturned onto its roof, and a post-impact fire destroyed the airframe.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined the pilot's training history, the aircraft's condition, and the sequence of radio communications. The investigation noted that the pilot held a valid PPL and was experienced with this specific model. However, records from a previous flight school indicated past difficulties with motor skills and situational management.
Investigators also reviewed the airfield layout and the available runway length at the time of the incident. The investigation confirmed that the engine and control surfaces were functioning normally prior to the impact and that weather conditions were clear with good visibility.