What happened
On May 24, 2003, at 12:10 UTC, a Laverda Falco F.8-L, registration HB-UOK, departed from the Nuits-Saint-Georges airfield for a flight destined for Annemasse and then Geneva. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft climbed over a line of trees approximately 20 meters high located just left of the runway axis. Witnesses observed the aircraft banking slightly to the left before it struck the CD 109 departmental road, roughly 300 meters from the end of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire and subsequently bounce into a nearby field. The accident resulted in two fatalities, involving the pilot and the passenger.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the wreckage, the aircraft's mechanical state, and witness accounts. Investigators found that the aircraft was within its permitted weight and center of gravity limits. The engine was found to have been producing power at the moment of impact, as evidenced by the condition of the propeller blades and impact marks on the ground, allowing investigators to rule out an engine failure during takeoff.
Examination of the flight control cables showed continuity between the controls and the control surfaces. However, the condition of the elevator trim mechanism could not be fully assessed due to the extensive damage caused by the post-crash fire. The landing gear was found to be retracted at the time of the accident. Autopsy results provided no medical evidence that could have contributed to the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating within its approved mass and balance limits.
- Weather conditions at the time of the accident were good, with high visibility and light winds.
- The engine was functioning and delivering power at the time of the collision.
- The primary cause of the accident appears to be an operational error, though the investigation could not formally rule out a failure of the elevator trim mechanism due to the severe fire damage to the wreckage.