What happened
On January 8, 2012, a Cessna 152, registration F-GLPO, departed from the Moisselles aerodrome for a local flight. The aircraft was operated by a flight club and carried a pilot and one passenger. After following the required departure path toward the edge of the CTR, the pilot turned back toward the airfield.
While performing the arrival procedure on a crosswind leg for runway 25, the aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 700 feet. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying straight and level before it suddenly and rapidly pitched down. The aircraft struck the ground with high energy in a field approximately 1 NM west of the aerodrome. The impact resulted in two fatalities and the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the aircraft's mechanical condition and the cockpit environment. Technical examinations of the airframe, elevator trim, and flight control chains revealed no mechanical anomalies or evidence of a bird strike. Medical examinations and autopsies of the pilot and passenger showed no toxicological factors that could explain the event.
Investigators noted that the pilot's injuries were consistent with a flight posture with heels on the floor, and his hand position suggested a firm grip on the control yoke, likely attempting to counter a sudden pitch-down.
Crucially, the BEA conducted ground simulations using a person of similar build to the deceased passenger. These tests demonstrated that a passenger seated in the right seat could naturally and comfortably place their left foot against the elevator control linkage located near the rudder pedals. This movement could easily trigger a full-pitch-down command that would be difficult for the pilot to counteract using the yoke alone.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of pitch control during the arrival phase.
- No mechanical failure or external impact (such as a bird strike) contributed to the accident.
- The passenger's left foot may have unintentionally pressed against the elevator control linkage, causing the aircraft to nose down abruptly.
- Flight instructors interviewed during the investigation were largely unaware that the control linkage was positioned in a way that allowed for such passenger interference.
Safety action
- The BEA recommended that the FAA ensure Cessna Aircraft Company informs owners of Cessna and Reims Aviation 150/152 models about the risk of passenger interference with the elevator control linkage.
- The BEA recommended that EASA inform national aviation authorities of this potential risk for these specific aircraft types.