What happened
On November 19, 2009, a Robin DR 400-140 B, registration F-BVYZ, was performing a flight from Montluçon to Châtellerault. While approaching runway 36, the pilot announced an intention to fly directly into the long final for runway 18. During the maneuver, the pilot observed other aircraft on the frequency and transitioned to a left-hand downwind leg for runway 18.
During the final approach, the pilot and passenger experienced difficulty identifying the position of other aircraft on the airfield due to sun glare. This search for visual references caused significant distraction. As the aircraft approached the runway threshold, the pilot's visibility of the touchdown zone decreased. The aircraft subsequently struck a 1.7-meter-high perimeter fence located 115 meters from the displaced threshold, followed by an impact with the ground. The aircraft sustained heavy damage during the collision and came to rest on its nose.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the loss of control and the pilot's inability to maintain the correct glide path. Investigators examined the cockpit environment, noting that the pilot and passenger were both hindered by the sun's position. The investigation also looked into the pilot's ability to receive radio communications, as an instructor on the frequency had broadcast a warning to execute a go-around, which the pilot did not appear to hear.
Furthermore, the investigation reviewed the pilot's medical and physical condition. While the pilot held a valid medical certificate, information from the club instructor suggested a decline in the pilot's hearing and general health since early 2009. The passenger confirmed that the pilot utilized a hearing aid but struggled with auditory perception.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure to execute a go-around after losing visual references during the final approach.
- Visual scanning for other aircraft on the airfield, complicated by sun glare, distracted the pilot during a critical phase of flight.
- The pilot's diminished hearing may have prevented the receipt of a timely go-around instruction from another aircraft on the frequency.