What happened
On March 5, 2001, a Jodel D 119, registration F-BKCQ, was performing a return flight from Ancenis to Nantes. During the initial climb, approximately 200 feet above the ground and at a speed of roughly 100 km/h, the left side of the canopy opened unexpectedly and became stuck in the upright position.
To prevent the canopy from being torn from the airframe, the passenger attempted to unlatch it and close it. In an effort to assist with the re-locking process, the pilot reduced airspeed and maintained level flight. Because the canopy could not be fully secured, the pilot executed a precautionary landing in a field aligned with the runway. The aircraft struck the ground with a significant nose-down attitude, slid for approximately 25 meters, and eventually came to a halt against a utility pole. The aircraft sustained heavy damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanism of the canopy failure. The pilot, who was adjusting his position in the cockpit during the initial climb, explained that his movements caused him to strike the plexiglass canopy. This physical contact applied localized pressure to the structure.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the incomplete locking of the canopy prior to takeoff.
- The pilot's physical movement within the cockpit exerted enough force on the canopy to cause the locking points to disengage.