On April 21, 1988, a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) (registration F-BTCE) operated by École de parachutisme d’Île de France was involved in an aviation accident near Lens-Bénifontaine, France during takeoff. 9 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during climb for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
After takeoff from Lens-Bénifontaine, the aircraft's engine failed while climbing to 1,000 meters. The airplane entered a dive and crashed in a stone-pit. Eight occupants were killed, two skydivers were seriously injured, and one survivor later died.
Accident Sequence
Following takeoff from Lens-Bénifontaine, the aircraft was climbing to an altitude of 1,000 meters when the pilot initiated a turn to gain more altitude. During this maneuver, the engine failed. The aircraft subsequently entered a dive and crashed in a stone-pit located near the airport.
Injuries and Fatalities
Two skydivers sustained serious injuries in the accident. Eight other occupants were killed. One day after the crash, one of the survivors died from his injuries.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure during climb for unknown reasons.
What happened in the 21 Apr 1988 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Lens-Bénifontaine, France?
After takeoff from Lens-Bénifontaine, the aircraft's engine failed while climbing to 1,000 meters. The airplane entered a dive and crashed in a stone-pit. Eight occupants were killed, two skydivers were seriously injured, and one survivor later died.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Apr 1988 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 9 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Apr 1988 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration F-BTCE, operated by École de parachutisme d’Île de France, at Lens-Bénifontaine, France.
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