What happened
On August 17, 2002, a Robin DR 300-140, registration F-BSLU, was conducting a training flight near Bagnères-de-Luchon, France. The pilot, who had recently obtained his PPL, requested the company of a more experienced passenger to practice circuit patterns. Before arriving at the target aerodrome, the crew practiced the specific approach procedures for Bagnères-de-Luchon at Castelnau.
Upon arriving at the aerodrome, the pilot performed an initial approach on runway 01 but aborted the landing due to an elongated approach. During a second attempt, the aircraft touched down approximately three-quarters down the runway and subsequently lifted off again. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck the tops of trees and crashed on the right side of the airfield. The accident resulted in two injuries (the pilot and the passenger) and the destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the sequence of events and the crew's decision-making process. The pilot reported that after the first aborted approach, he initially intended to return to Castelnau. However, following a suggestion from the passenger, the crew decided to attempt another circuit. During this second attempt, the passenger took control of the aircraft during the turn back toward the airfield, while the pilot resumed control during the final approach.
Witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft approaching on final with excessive speed and height. They noted the aircraft touched down well past the runway threshold, briefly slowed, and then accelerated again before lifting off into the trees. The investigation also noted that all cockpit communications between the crew were conducted in English.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to allow the passenger to fly the approach led to a loss of effective command.
- The primary cause was the passenger's persistence in attempting to land, combined with the pilot's excessive reliance on the passenger's input.
- During the critical phase of the second approach, the passenger applied full flaps and attempted to brake after a high-speed touchdown, but the pilot subsequently initiated a go-around while the passenger was manipulating the carburetor heat control, contributing to the unstable flight path that led to the tree strike.