What happened
Shortly after departing from runway 28 at Ecuvilless Airport, the aircraft experienced a loss of altitude while traveling at 120 knots. Approximately forty seconds into the flight, the plane began a slight rightward turn but failed to maintain a steady climb. The flight path was characterized by unstable altitude fluctuations, involving a series of descents and climbs.
During this unstable phase, the aircraft struck the tops of trees. The impact caused significant structural damage, including the loss of portions of the wings and the empennage, while the engine cowlings became detached from the airframe. The collision also compromised the fuel tanks, leading to an in-flight fire.
Following the initial impact with the vegetation, the aircraft traveled roughly 120 meters through the wooded area before striking a powerline. The sequence concluded when the plane crashed into an open field approximately 275 meters from the first point of impact. The resulting impact and fire caused the death of the pilot, who was the only person on board.
Findings
- The aircraft failed to maintain sufficient altitude following takeoff.
- Structural failure and fire occurred after the aircraft struck treetops and powerlines.