What happened
On July 15, 2007, a Dyn Aero MCR 01 Club, registration HB-YJQ, crashed into the waters of the Venice Lagoon near the island of Sant’Erasmo. The aircraft was performing a VFR departure from Venice Lido Airport (LIPV) for a flight to Orio al Serio.
Prior to takeoff, the pilot exhibited several procedural irregularities, including an erratic taxi route that required intervention from airport ground personnel and a failure to establish radio contact with AFIS before moving from the parking area. During the pre-flight phase, the pilot also failed to complete essential checklist items, specifically regarding the security of the seatbelts and the cockpit canopy.
Shortly after takeoff from runway 06, the aircraft's canopy opened in flight. The sudden influx of noise and increased aerodynamic drag caused the pilot to become distracted while attempting to close the canopy. In the process of managing the cockpit and attempting to return to the airport, the pilot reduced engine power and executed maneuvers that led to an aerodynamic stall. The aircraft struck the lagoon surface at an altitude of approximately 15 meters in a nose-down attitude. The pilot sustained injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation examined the wreckage, maintenance records, and the pilot's actions. Technical analysis of the propeller blades confirmed the engine was functioning normally at the time of impact. The investigation also consulted the aircraft manufacturer regarding the aerodynamic effects of an open canopy.
Investigators reviewed the maintenance history, noting that a new canopy and updated closing system had been installed approximately 40 flight hours prior to the accident. The investigation also analyzed the pilot's taxiing behavior and the omission of specific checklist items during the pre-flight sequence.