What happened
On November 2, 2008, a Robin DR 400-180, registration F-GJZK, departed from Romans-sur-Isère for Aix-les-Milles. The flight, which included the pilot and three passengers, initially proceeded toward the east, performing several maneuvers between Saint-Marcellin and Saint-Jean-en-Royans. As night fell, the pilot decided to continue the flight toward the south, likely attempting to bypass a developing weather system.
As the aircraft moved toward the Vercors massif, it encountered a severe weather front characterized by cumulonimbus clouds, heavy rain, lightning, and intense turbulence. Around 17:11 UTC, the pilot attempted to divert toward Orange to reach the Rhône Valley. During this maneuver, the aircraft encountered powerful downdrafts associated with the convective cells. The aircraft subsequently struck a ridge and crashed into a wooded slope near Arpavon at an altitude of approximately 950 meters. The impact resulted in 4 fatalities.
The investigation
The BEA investigation examined the aircraft' and the pilot's flight history. The Robin DR 400-180 was found to be in good mechanical condition, with all maintenance up to date and the aircraft within weight and balance limits. Investigators analyzed meteorological data, which confirmed a significant storm system was moving through the region, bringing heavy rain, hail, and strong winds.
Evidence from the site showed the aircraft had struck trees in a descending path before hitting the ground with high energy. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's actions prior to departure. Although the pilot had consulted weather forecasts earlier in the day and noted a warning for unfavorable conditions in the southeast, he did not perform any further meteorological checks before takeoff. Witnesses at the airfield had also attempted to dissuade the pilot from flying due to the deteriorating weather.
Findings
- The pilot was flying in meteorological conditions that did not permit VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight for the duration of the trip.
- The flight was conducted at a time that necessitated flying at night, for which the pilot was not qualified.
- The pilot made the decision to proceed with the flight despite highly unfavorable weather conditions and the onset of night.
- The aircraft encountered severe atmospheric disturbances, including strong downdrafts, which contributed to the loss of control and subsequent impact with terrain.