What happened
On April 5, 2011, at 15:00 local time, an Issoire Aviation APM20 Lionceau, registered F-GRRX, was performing a ferry flight from Issoire to Pont-sur-Yonne. The pilot, accompanied by one passenger, configured the aircraft with 12.5° flaps and lined up on the unpaved runway 18R for takeoff.
Witnesses observed that the aircraft lifted off the ground but failed to establish a climb. The aircraft subsequently touched back down on the runway, but the available runway length was insufficient to stop the aircraft before it exited the runway longitudinally. During the excursion, the nose gear and propeller were destroyed after the aircraft struck a rut in the terrain. There were no fatalities or injuries reported, though the aircraft sustained heavy damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the engine performance and the pilot's experience. The pilot reported feeling a loss of power during the acceleration phase, which led to the decision to abort the takeoff. However, a technical examination of the engine revealed no malfunctions or mechanical failures. The aircraft's weight and balance were confirmed to be within the manufacturer's specified limits.
Regarding pilot proficiency, the pilot held a valid PPL and had a total of 258 flight hours, though only 20 minutes of experience were recorded on this specific aircraft type. On the morning of the accident, the pilot had completed a 20-minute familiarization flight with an instructor, consisting of two takeoffs and two landings.
Findings
- The aircraft likely took off at the second power setting rather than the full power required for a safe climb.
- The primary cause of the accident was a premature takeoff.
- The pilot's limited experience with this specific aircraft type may have contributed to the event.