Incident Overview
A single-engine aircraft departed Lézignan-Corbières Airport at 1650 hours local time with a pilot and several skydivers on board. The flight proceeded uneventfully as the aircraft climbed to an altitude of 10,500 feet, where all skydivers exited the aircraft. Following the jump, the pilot reduced altitude to return to the departure airport.
Flight Sequence
On final approach to runway 08, at a height of 700 feet and a speed of 90 knots, the pilot slightly increased engine power to maintain the glide, then reduced power again. At that moment, the engine stopped and the propeller auto-feathered. The aircraft became unable to reach the runway, prompting the pilot to attempt an emergency landing.
Emergency Landing
The pilot executed an emergency landing in a vineyard located approximately 800 meters short of runway 08, to the right of its extended centerline. The pilot sustained no injuries, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair as a result of the landing.
Investigation
The investigation was unable to determine the cause of the turbine failure on final approach. Sufficient fuel, about 500 pounds, remained in the tanks at the time of the incident. Analysis of the engine, fuel supply control system, and fuel pump did not reveal any anomalies.