What happened
On Sunday, March 14, 2004, at 12:40 local time, a D.T.A. 582 Dynamic 15 ultralight, identified as 79-AO, was performing a solo cross-country flight. The pilot intended to fly approximately 250 nautical miles to a landing site near their home, planning a mid-way stop. Witnesses at the Monpezat d'Agenais airfield observed the aircraft departing on runway 15. During the initial climb, reaching an altitude of roughly 50 meters, the aircraft turned left and began descending toward the runway intersection. As the aircraft attempted to regain altitude, it performed a sudden left turn and descended toward a hangar where club members and the pilot's family had gathered. The aircraft struck the rear of the hangar roof, passed under a telephone line, and cleared a hedge before crashing onto a road below.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage of the D.T.A. 582 Dynamic 15 and found no mechanical anomalies or malfunctions prior to the impact. All structural failures were determined to be the result of the collision with the hangar and the subsequent ground impact. Significant damage to the propeller blades indicated that the engine was producing power at the time of the accident. Furthermore, an autopsy of the pilot revealed no medical incapacity that could have contributed to the event. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was new, and the pilot had only accumulated 2 hours and 45 minutes of total flight time, with only 2 hours and 45 minutes of experience on this specific type.
Findings
- The pilot was performing his first solo cross-country flight.
- The pilot had recently completed solo circuit training the previous day to familiarize himself with the new aircraft.
- Excessive confidence during a marginal maneuver led to the loss of control.
- Despite the pilot's limited experience, he proceeded with the flight despite warnings from an instructor and club members who advised against the journey due to his lack of navigation experience.