What happened
On June 19, 1999, a Piper PA 19 Super Cub, registration F-BMJV, was conducting a training flight at the Castillon-de-la-Laquette altisurface. After performing two low passes over the site, the pilot landed approximately 80 meters beyond the runway threshold. Due to significant deceleration, the pilot determined that the aircraft would not reach the turnaround platform.
In an attempt to maneuver, the pilot initiated a right-hand turn while navigating the slope of the runway. During this turn, the right wheel became stuck in a rut. Despite applying full power, the aircraft drifted toward the left side of the runway. As the aircraft descended, the left wheel entered a ditch and climbed an adjacent embankment, while the right wheel remained trapped in the rut. This sequence caused the aircraft to trip and eventually come to rest on its back.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the runway conditions and the maneuvers performed during the taxiing phase. Investigators examined the unpaved runway, which measured 200 by 25 meters and featured a concave profile with steep gradients of 14% and 27%. The investigation also looked into the presence of ruts on the runway surface.
Findings
- The runway surface contained ruts, which were likely caused by the passage of all-terrain vehicles.
- The primary cause of the accident was the insufficient consideration of the runway characteristics by the pilot during the turnaround maneuver.