What happened
On August 4, 2009, a Piper PA38 Tomahawk, registration F-GCFP, departed from Perpignan aerodrome for a local instructional flight. After takeoff, the instructor notified air traffic control that the planned circuit was canceled in favor of a flight along the coastline at 3,000 feet.
While cruising at 3,500 feet, radar data and wreckage analysis indicate the aircraft entered a slight descent before experiencing a rapid loss of altitude. The instructor transmitted a distress call only seconds before the aircraft impacted the sea, approximately 3 nautical miles east of Canet-Plable. The impact resulted in two fatalities.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and recovered various components, including the engine and propeller, which were found to be delivering power at the moment of impact. The aircraft's electrical and fuel systems were found in the 'ON' position, and the engine was functioning normally. There were no mechanical malfunctions identified in the airframe or engine that contributed to the accident.
Autopsy results provided critical insight into the sequence of events. While the instructor died upon impact, the autopsy of the student pilot revealed that death occurred prior to the crash due to cardiac and pulmonary complications. At the time of the impact, the student pilot's body was slumped forward.
Findings
- The aircraft was engaged in an instructional exercise at the time of the accident.
- The sudden change in flight trajectory was caused by the student pilot collapsing forward onto the flight controls, effectively jamming them.
- The Piper PA38 is equipped only with two-point lap belts, which failed to prevent the occupant from sliding forward during a medical event.
- The instructor was unable to clear the controls or regain command of the aircraft before the impact.