What happened
On September 9, 2006, a Socata TB 9 Tampico, registered F-GDBZ, was performing instructional circuits at Merville aerodrome. The pilot, a trainee with limited experience, had been completing circuits under the supervision of an instructor. During the fourth circuit, the instructor permitted the pilot to fly the leg solo.
While on the left-hand downwind leg for runway 04, the pilot's attention was diverted by a radio message from a helicopter pilot announcing their arrival at 1,500 feet. The trainee was unable to visually locate the helicopter. Simultaneously, another aircraft was observed on the same downwind leg at a lower altitude. Following a request from air traffic control to extend the downwind leg, the trainee transitioned to final approach, following the other aircraft.
Believing the aircraft was below the required glide path, the pilot attempted to level off. However, the pilot failed to increase engine power while simultaneously deploying the flaps to their full extent. This configuration led to a stall warning. The pilot did not react to the warning, resulting in a stall during short final, which caused the aircraft to impact a plowed field.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's flight maneuvers and the environmental distractions present during the solo flight. Investigators examined the pilot's actions regarding power management and flap deployment during the approach. The investigation also assessed the pilot's state of mind and physical condition, specifically noting the impact of external distractions and fatigue on flight performance.