Incident
A single-engine aircraft was completing an aerial photography flight from Clermont-Ferrand, carrying one pilot and one passenger. On final approach to Moulins-Montbeugny Airport runway 08, at a speed of 85 knots, the pilot estimated that the nose-up attitude of the aircraft was excessive and increased engine power. The aircraft then rolled to the left, causing the left wing tip to strike the runway surface. Out of control, the aircraft impacted the ground, lost its undercarriage, and slid for 95 metres before coming to rest, bursting into flames. Both occupants escaped uninjured. The fire brigade arrived 15 minutes later. The aircraft was destroyed by fire.
Probable Cause
The official investigation reported that the approach was completed with the engine at reduced power. It was not possible to determine if the engine was running at 'full reduced power' or at a minimum of 10% of torque as recommended by the manufacturer. During an approach completed with an engine at 'full reduced power', full power can be obtained only after a period of five seconds.