1985-08-20: Grumman S-2 Tracker — Sécurité civile — Marseille-Marignane, France

2 fatalities • Marseille-Marignane, France • Flight

Probable cause

It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a dual engine failure due to fuel exhaustion.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The crew was approaching Marseille-Marignane Airport following a 3 hours survey flight over the region when he was informed about a fire that just started in Gignac-la-Nerthe, about 5 km south of Marignane Airport. As the fire retardant was still on board, the crew initiated a go-around and flew over the zone under fire. While flying at low height, the aircraft stalled and crashed in a prairie near a house. The aircraft was destroyed and both pilots were killed. Crew: Michel Brousse, Charles Daussin.

Probable cause (official findings): It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a dual engine failure due to fuel exhaustion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1985-08-20 Grumman S-2 Tracker accident near Marseille-Marignane, France?

The crew was approaching Marseille-Marignane Airport following a 3 hours survey flight over the region when he was informed about a fire that just started in Gignac-la-Nerthe, about 5 km south of Marignane Airport. As the fire retardant was still on board, the crew initiated a go-around and flew over the zone under…

Were there any fatalities in the 1985-08-20 Grumman S-2 Tracker accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1985-08-20 involved a Grumman S-2 Tracker, registration F-ZBEI, operated by Sécurité civile, at Marseille-Marignane, France.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a dual engine failure due to fuel exhaustion.

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