Flight Preparation
The pilot, who owned the airplane and managed the Berdoues Aerodrome, offered a first flight to five people after a day of socializing. Upon arriving at the airport, he observed a large cumulonimbus cloud approaching the runway from the west. He believed he could complete the flight before weather conditions worsened and opted for a flapless takeoff, as was his usual practice.
Takeoff and Accident
While taxiing to the runway, the pilot passed the windsock and noted a wind from the south at 30 knots. He performed an engine test at the threshold of Runway 08 and began the takeoff procedure. Just before rotation, he passed the windsock again and realized the wind had shifted to a tailwind of the same speed. Deciding it was too late to abort, he continued the takeoff.
The single-engine airplane lifted off but struggled to gain altitude. It descended, striking a grassy area beyond the runway end, then hit small trees about 200 meters further. The impact caused the aircraft to lose its undercarriage and left wing, and it finally came to rest in a pasture 300 meters from the runway end.
Occupant Injuries and Damage
All six occupants—the pilot and five passengers—escaped with minor injuries. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the pilot failed to consider the weather conditions before the flight, as his judgment and capabilities were impaired by alcohol consumption. A blood test taken 1 hour and 15 minutes after the accident revealed a blood alcohol level of 0.98‰.
Further analysis of the wind and weather conditions indicated that a takeoff would have required a distance of 1,300 meters, whereas Runway 08 measures only 780 meters in length.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause states: "It was determined that the pilot failed to take into consideration weather conditions prior to the flight after his judgment and capabilities were impaired due to alcohol consumption."