What happened
On July 7, 2008, a weight-shift ultralight aircraft, registration SE-YOZ, was involved in an accident during a takeoff from a meadow in Sääksmäki, Valkeakoski. The aircraft, a Pegasus XL-Q, was being operated for recreational purposes.
The pilot initiated a takeoff roll on a meadow covered in approximately 20 cm of clover. The takeoff roll lasted about 80 meters, but the aircraft's acceleration was slow. The pilot believed the engine power was insufficient, possibly because the foot throttle was not fully depressed. The aircraft lifted off at an altitude of only 4–5 meters.
Upon realizing the aircraft would not clear a large barn located ahead in the flight path, the pilot initiated a left turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft lost altitude due to low airspeed, causing the left wing to strike a wheat field. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground, spun, and came to rest on its right side. The pilot sustained a dislocated right shoulder.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's airworthiness, the pilot's qualifications, and the circumstances of the takeoff. It was established that the aircraft had been brought from Sweden to Finland approximately two months prior. The aircraft had been assembled on the owner's property using verbal instructions because the flight manual was unavailable.
Investigators found that the aircraft had not undergone the required inspections or registration in Finland, nor did it possess the necessary aviation insurance. Furthermore, the pilot had no training, certificate, or license specifically for weight-shift ultralight aircraft. While some components, such as a wing attachment nut and safety pin, were noted as missing, the owner stated these were removed after the accident. No technical mechanical failure was identified as the primary cause of the crash.
Findings
- The pilot lost control of the aircraft during a low-altitude turn following takeoff.
- The pilot lacked the required training, competency certificate, or license for weight-shift ultralight operations.
- The aircraft was not properly registered or inspected for operation in Finland and lacked required insurance.
- The aircraft was assembled without the aid of a written manual.
- The slow acceleration and low takeoff altitude were likely caused by insufficient engine power and the resistance from the tall clover on the takeoff surface.
- The pilot's lack of experience and skill in managing the aircraft at low speeds contributed to the loss of control.