Incident Overview
On October 11, 2009, a Reims Aviation F177 RG Cardinal, registered as F-BVIM, was destroyed when it struck an electricity pylon near Rémilly sur Lozon in France. The accident occurred at approximately 18:03 UTC. Both occupants, the pilot and one passenger, were killed. The impact also damaged a 400,000-volt transmission line owned by RTE.
Flight Details and Crew
The aircraft was operated by Association Air Zen for a private journey from Carpentras to Lessay. The pilot was a 70-year-old male with approximately 1,092 hours of flight experience but no night rating. The passenger was a 38-year-old female with a private pilot license and 157 hours of total time, also lacking a night rating. Both held valid medical certificates at the time of the accident.
Weather and Navigation
The flight took place in deteriorating meteorological conditions. A weather front brought low stratus clouds, mist, and reduced visibility to the region. The sun set at 17:24 local time, and aeronautical night began shortly after. During the final approach, the pilot reported being caught by "night and mist" and requested radar guidance. After turning east toward Caen as suggested by air traffic control, the aircraft's radar track was lost, and it subsequently collided with the pylon.