Incident Details
Forty seconds after departing from Ecuvillens Airport runway 28, the aircraft was flying at 120 knots when it began a slight right turn without gaining sufficient altitude. The aircraft's altitude subsequently fluctuated, descending and climbing before suddenly impacting tree tops. The collision resulted in the loss of wing and empennage components, and all engine cowlings separated. The fuel tanks were compromised, and the aircraft caught fire.
The aircraft continued over a wooded area for approximately 120 metres before striking a powerline. It then crashed into an open field 275 metres beyond the initial impact point, bursting into flames. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the accident was caused by a collision with trees due to an inadequate flight path after takeoff in weather conditions that did not allow for visual flight rules (VFR) flight. Additionally, an irregular and intermittent operation of an engine probably diverted the pilot's attention from managing the flight path.