What happened
On August 25, 2007, at approximately 09:39 UTC, a Cessna U206E engaged in a planned four-hour ferry flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) from Vöslau (LOAV) to Annecy (LFLY). After departing from the paved runway 31, the aircraft failed to gain significant altitude, reaching only about 27 meters above the ground before the climb was interrupted.
As the aircraft was unable to maintain its flight path and faced an overhead power line in its immediate trajectory, the pilot attempted an emergency landing in a field located slightly to the right of the flight path. The subsequent landing was uncontrolled, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and two serious injuries to the occupants.
The investigation
The Austrian Federal Safety Investigation Board (SUB) reconstructed the flight sequence using GPS data from the onboard navigation unit, witness statements from the occupants and local observers, and findings from the local police. The investigation focused on the aircraft's performance during the initial climb, the condition of the engine and propeller, and the fuel system's stability.
Technical examinations were conducted on the engine, the propeller, the propeller governor, and the fuel system. The investigators also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, weight and balance, and the pilot's use of checklists and emergency procedures.