What happened
A single-engine aircraft departed from Granville-Bréville Aerodrome to perform a local skydiving operation. Following the completion of the mission and the disembarkation of all passengers, the pilot began a descent to return to the airfield. While performing the final approach toward runway 07, the aircraft became unstable and lost control. The plane impacted the water a short distance from the shoreline.
Upon the impact, the aircraft submerged to a depth of approximately 5 to 6 metres. A nearby sailor reached the site of the accident immediately and managed to rescue the pilot from the wreckage. The pilot sustained slight injuries during the event. The aircraft was subsequently determined to be a total loss, as the damage was beyond repair. The wreckage was eventually retrieved from the seabed and brought to the beach the following day.
Findings
- The aircraft lost control during the final approach phase of flight.