3 fatalities

2002-02-19: Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (F-GHUY) — SOGEPA — Libourne-Les Artigues-de-Lussac, France

Libourne-Les Artigues-de-Lussac, FranceTakeoff (climb)

On February 19, 2002, a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (registration F-GHUY) operated by SOGEPA was involved in an aviation accident near Libourne-Les Artigues-de-Lussac, France during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control during initial climb, possibly linked to a power asymmetry between the two engines; origin and effective contribution not determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781202034Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff from runway 22, a twin-engine aircraft made a steep left turn, lost control, and crashed into a wooded area 2 km away, killing all three occupants. The probable cause is loss of control possibly due to engine power asymmetry.

Accident Overview

On an unspecified date, a twin-engine aircraft departed from runway 22 at Libourne-Les Artigues-de-Lussac Airport. During the initial climb, the aircraft first executed a slight right turn, followed by a left turn in a strong left bank configuration. It subsequently lost control and crashed into a wooded area located 2 km from the end of the runway. The impact resulted in a fire that engulfed the aircraft. All three occupants were killed.

Flight Sequence

After takeoff, the aircraft began its initial climb. Shortly after, it made a first slight turn to the right, then a turn to the left with a pronounced left bank. The aircraft went out of control and descended, crashing into trees. The wreckage was consumed by flames.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the accident was due to a loss of control during the initial climb phase, which may be linked to a power asymmetry between the two engines. It was not possible to determine the origin of this asymmetry, nor its effective contribution to the accident.