What happened
On November 18, 2002, a SOCATA RALLYE 180, registration F-BRDL, was performing a local pleasure flight from Sabadell Airport. Shortly after the aircraft became airborne from runway 31, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power.
Attempting to manage the emergency, the pilot intended to land on the opposite runway. However, due to insufficient airspeed and altitude, the pilot was unable to complete a 180-degree turn. The aircraft subsequently landed on the runway strip. The impact with the ground was forceful, causing the nose landing gear to collapse and the propeller to strike the ground. The aircraft continued across a taxiway before coming to a halt. While fuel was spilled during the incident, airport fire services successfully prevented a fire from breaking out. There were no injuries to the two occupants.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical state and the pilot's actions following the power loss. The investigation focused on the position of the fuel switch, which has two primary positions: open and closed. It was noted that if the switch is left in an intermediate position, it does not lock into place.
Upon inspecting the aircraft after the accident, the pilot observed that the fuel switch was positioned very close to the closed position. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's pre-flight procedures and the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid at the time of the incident.