Aircraft accident near Lens-Bénifontaine

9 fatalities • Lens-Bénifontaine, France • Takeoff (climb)

An engine failure during a climbing turn led to the crash of an aircraft near Lens-Bénifontaine, resulting in nine fatalities.

What happened

During a flight departing from Lens-Bénifontaine, the aircraft was performing a climb toward an altitude of 1,000 meters. While the pilot was executing a turn intended to increase altitude, the engine ceased functioning. Following this loss of power, the aircraft entered a dive and struck the ground within a stone-pit situated in the vicinity of the airport.

The accident resulted in eight fatalities among the occupants at the scene, with two skydivers sustaining serious injuries. One of the survivors later succumbed to their injuries the following day, bringing the total death toll to nine.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor was an engine failure occurring during the climb phase of flight.

Probable cause

The engine failed for unknown reasons while the aircraft was climbing and turning.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-04-21 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Lens-Bénifontaine, France?

An engine failure during a climbing turn led to the crash of an aircraft near Lens-Bénifontaine, resulting in nine fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-04-21 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 1988-04-21 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration F-BTCE, operated by École de parachutisme d’Île de France, at Lens-Bénifontaine, France.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed for unknown reasons while the aircraft was climbing and turning.

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