What happened
On May 6, 2002, a Dyn'Aéro MCR 01 amateur-built aircraft, registered F-PQUQ, was performing a flight from Montauban Aerodrome to Auch as part of the "Tour de France ATL" competition. During the takeoff roll on runway 32, witnesses observed the aircraft's pitch increasing sharply three times while still on the ground, causing the rear skid to scrape the runway surface.
The aircraft successfully lifted off after approximately 600 meters of takeoff roll but failed to gain significant altitude. After flying for about 600 meters, the aircraft entered a stall with a slight rightward bank and struck a grove of trees. The aircraft eventually came to rest in a garden, where it caught fire. The accident resulted in two fatalities, involving both the pilot and the passenger.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and determined that the engine was delivering power and the two-blade, electrically variable-pitch propeller was set to a fine pitch position. The high-lift devices (flaps) were found to be retracted.
Analysis of the aircraft's weight and balance indicated that the aircraft was operating at its maximum allowable mass. The investigation also considered the environmental conditions, noting a temperature of 17 °C and a light wind. The investigators assessed the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft during the takeoff phase, specifically looking at the impact of weight, wind components, and configuration on climb capability.