Pilot encounters IMC and requires military assistance during flight from Vesoul

Casualties unknown • FR

A pilot flying a Robin DR 400-140 B entered instrument meteorological conditions during initial climb, leading to a loss of control and emergency assistance from Mirage 2000 fighters.

What happened

On November 19, 2003, a pilot operating a Robin DR 40 and 140 B, registration F-GGJK, prepared for a local flight from Vesoul aerodrome. Despite warnings from the flight club's chief pilot regarding deteriorating weather in the intended flight sector, the pilot decided to proceed with circuit training. During the initial climb, at approximately 300 feet, the pilot retracted the flaps and shut off the fuel pump, at which point the aircraft entered a cloud layer and visual references were lost.

While attempting to execute a right turn to rejoin the downwind leg, the aircraft entered a 45-degree right bank and continued to climb. The pilot attempted to correct the bank but did so too abruptly, resulting in a heavy left bank. After broadcasting a distress message on 121.5 MHz, the pilot was contacted by the crew of a commercial airliner. The pilot realized the aircraft was descending at a rate exceeding 1,000 feet per minute and focused on instrument flight, using the artificial horizon to establish a positive pitch. The aircraft eventually climbed back above the clouds at 3,500 feet.

Uncertain of his exact position, the pilot contacted Luxeuil Approach. Two Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft intercepted the aircraft near Luxeuil to provide assistance and guidance. The pilot was subsequently directed to Pontarlier aerodrome, where he successfully landed at approximately 16:20.

The investigation

The investigation examined the pilot's pre-flight weather assessment and the sequence of maneuvers performed during the loss of visual references. The investigation noted that the pilot had consulted Météo-France online prior to the flight, reviewing METAR and TAF reports for Luxeuil. It was also established that the pilot had not flown for several weeks and had a strong desire to fly despite the unfavorable conditions.

Findings

  • The pilot demonstrated an obstinacy to fly despite deteriorating weather conditions.
  • There was an erroneous estimation of the meteorological conditions present at the time of departure.
  • The pilot's abrupt corrective action during the loss of visual references contributed to the loss of control.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the encounter with IMC was the pilot's decision to proceed with the flight despite unfavorable weather and an incorrect assessment of the actual conditions. This was compounded by an abrupt control input during the transition to instrument flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-11-19 INCIDENT survenu à l’avion accident near FR?

A pilot flying a Robin DR 400-140 B entered instrument meteorological conditions during initial climb, leading to a loss of control and emergency assistance from Mirage 2000 fighters.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-11-19 involved a INCIDENT survenu à l’avion, registration F-GGJK, at FR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the encounter with IMC was the pilot's decision to proceed with the flight despite unfavorable weather and an incorrect assessment of the actual conditions. This was compounded by an abrupt control input during the transition to instrument flight.

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