What happened
On August 2, 2010, at 17:40, a Zenair CH 601 XL ultralight, identified as 51-QZ, was conducting a flight from Quiberon to Arcachon. The pilot intended to land at the Île d’Yeu aerodrome. Upon approaching the airfield, the pilot contacted the AFIS agent to announce his arrival and was positioned on the left-hand downwind for runway 33.
The AFIS agent informed the pilot of another aircraft, a DR 400, which was currently on the runway, and instructed the pilot to maintain separation. The pilot responded by stating he would perform a 3-60-degree turn. Witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft performing a very tight turn at a low altitude—approximately 30 meters—and at a low airspeed. During the completion of this turn, the aircraft stalled, entered a spin, and struck the ground, subsequently catching fire.
The investigation
The investigation examined the wreckage and maintenance records of the 51-QZ. While the aircraft was destroyed by the post-impact fire, investigators could not identify any mechanical failure that would explain the accident. Maintenance records showed no significant issues, and the pilot had not reported any difficulties during communications with air traffic services.
Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's weight and balance. Although the exact empty weight of the ultralight could not be determined, estimates based on the standard model weight suggested that the mass and center of gravity were not contributing factors to the crash. Additionally, it was noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a stall warning system.
Findings
- The aircraft was flying at a very low altitude and high bank angle during the turn.
- The low altitude left the pilot with no opportunity to recover control once the stall occurred.
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's focus on managing the flight path at the expense of monitoring airspeed.