What happened
During a scheduled test flight originating from Toussyl-le-Noble and bound for Epinal, the crew encountered weather conditions that prevented a standard landing. As the aircraft approached Epinal-Mirecourt Airport, the prevailing visibility had dropped below the required minimum safety levels.
While on the final approach, the crew was unable to visually identify the runway. In response to the lack of visibility, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver by increasing engine power. During this transition, the aircraft experienced a left roll, which led to the engine and the left wing making contact with the runway surface. Following the impact, the pilot reduced power, causing the aircraft to bounce before eventually coming to a stop approximately 400 metres from the initial contact point.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was low visibility which prevented the crew from maintaining visual contact with the runway.
- The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
- The incident resulted in two injuries among the crew members.