What happened
On September 7, 2003, at approximately 15:04 UTC, a Fouga Zéphyr CM 175, registration F-AZPI, was performing an aerobatic display at the Ajaccio Campo Dell’oro aerodrome as part of the Corsicaria airshow.
During the final phase of the presentation, the pilot executed a series of maneuvers, including a slow barrel roll to the left followed by a left roll. Upon exiting the roll, the aircraft entered a rapid descent toward the ground. The aircraft struck the terrain in an inverted position, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and the death of the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's flight path, the pilot's recent experience, and the sequence of maneuvers using witness testimony and video footage. Analysis of the wreckage confirmed that the flight controls remained intact and that the engines were functioning normally at the time of impact. The aircraft was within its weight and center of gravity limits, and maintenance records indicated the aircraft was properly maintained.
Video analysis revealed that the pilot performed several maneuvers, including loops and rolls. However, the footage showed that during the final sequence, the aircraft entered a left roll that resulted in the plane being inverted and descending toward rising terrain. The investigation also noted that the pilot had not performed a site reconnaissance or a practice run prior to the event, and had relatively limited recent experience performing aerobatics in this specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The pilot initiated an improvised maneuver (a half-roll) that placed the aircraft in a vulnerable position relative to the nearby terrain.
- To avoid the rising ground while inverted, the pilot applied aggressive control inputs, including significant rudder and elevator deflection.
- These abrupt actions, combined with low airspeed, led to a stall and subsequent loss of control.
- The pilot's recent flight experience on the Fouga Zéphyr was limited, with only 12 hours of flight time recorded over the preceding year.
- The lack of a prior site reconnaissance or practice flight meant the pilot may not have fully accounted for the risks posed by the local topography during high-stress maneuvers.