What happened
On Sunday, October 5, 1997, at 12:10 local time, a SOCATA MS 880 Rallye club aircraft, registered F-BSKL, was involved in a ground collision at the Aix-les-Milles aerodrome. The aircraft was parked approximately twenty meters in front of its hangar. During the engine start sequence, the pilot positioned the throttle near the full power setting. As the engine started, the aircraft moved to the left and struck the hangar. The impact caused the wings to hit the hangar supports, and the hangar door subsequently fell onto the aircraft, causing it to tilt forward. The aircraft sustained heavy damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the engine start procedure and the mechanical state of the braking system. Investigators examined the cockpit procedures and the physical condition of the aircraft following the impact. It was noted that the pilot had not flown the aircraft for four months prior to the incident. The investigation also reviewed the engine start checklist, which included a specific item regarding the application of the parking brake.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure to properly apply the brakes.
- While the braking system was found to be functional and effective, the brakes were either not applied correctly or failed to lock the wheels during the high-power start.
- The pilot's recent lack of flight experience, having not flown for four months, was noted in the context of the event.