What happened
On May 11, 2013, a Cirrus SR2 and2, registration F-HTAV, was returning to Aix-les-Milles aerodrome after a flight to Spain. The flight was being conducted by a pilot accompanied by two passengers. During the approach to runway 33, the aircraft encountered significant turbulence due to strong northwesterly winds.
While performing the flare, the aircraft tilted approximately 10 degrees to the left. The left wheel made contact with the runway, causing the aircraft to bounce. The pilot subsequently initiated a go-around. During this maneuver, the airspeed dropped to approximately 60 knots, triggering the stall warning. As the pilot applied power, the aircraft experienced a sharp increase in pitch and a heavy left roll, leading to an inverted state. The aircraft struck the ground on the grassy area between the runway and the taxiway, eventually coming to rest upside down near a hangar. The accident resulted in one fatality (the pilot) and one injury (a passenger); the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's handling of the aircraft during the high-power go-around and the specific performance characteristics of the Cirrus SR22. Investigators examined flight data, ATC communications, and witness statements from the passengers.
Key elements examined included the pilot's previous experience, noting that while he was an instructor with over 600 flight hours, most of his experience was in much lower-powered aircraft (under 200 hp). The investigation also looked into the aircraft's configuration, noting that the engine's high power output creates significant pitch and roll moments during sudden power applications. Additionally, investigators noted that the aircraft's emergency parachute system lacked the required identification plate, which posed a risk to emergency responders.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was insufficient pilot control inputs to counteract the significant pitch and roll moments generated by the engine during the go-around.
- The pilot, accustomed to lower-powered aircraft, was likely overwhelmed by the intense aerodynamic effects of the Cirrus SR22's engine during the sudden application of power.
- Strong winds and turbulence contributed to the initial bounced landing.
- The aircraft was operating within weight and balance limits.
Safety action
- The BEA recommended that EASA mandate specific performance-based training for pilots operating Cirrus SR20 and SR22 aircraft.
- The BEA recommended that EASA evaluate methods to incorporate manufacturer-specific training recommendations into regulatory frameworks, even when no specific class or type rating is required.