What happened
On August 22, 2004, a privately operated Jodel D 119 DV (registration F-PMXB) was participating in a multi-aircraft flight involving two Jodel aircraft. After a series of landings at various mountain airstrips, the crew arrived at the Tignes altisurface. During the takeoff roll for runway 09, the pilot taxied toward the runway, turned left, and began the takeoff run without coming to a complete stop.
As the aircraft accelerated, it drifted toward the right side of the runway. The aircraft subsequently exited the paved surface and struck rocks, causing damage to the tail section. Despite the impact, the pilot continued the flight. The aircraft was noted to be difficult to maneuver, as the rudder was severely damaged and the rudder pedals were ineffective. To maintain control and prevent the aircraft from pitching nose-down, the pilot had to maintain high power and a significant back-pressure on the elevator, flying at a speed of approximately 150 km/h.
The pilot elected to divert to Albertville, located approximately 25 nautical miles away. Upon arrival at Albertville, the aircraft joined the traffic pattern on a long final for runway 23. During the landing flare, the aircraft drifted to the right and touched down on the grass beside the runway. The aircraft continued to veer right, passing between two parked aircraft before coming to a stop near the hangars.
The investigation
Investigators examined the takeoff procedures and the physical condition of the aircraft. It was noted that the layout of the Tignes altisurface features a flat area at the top of the runway that obscures the downward slope from the parking area. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision-making process regarding the takeoff roll and the subsequent emergency diversion.
Findings
- The primary cause of the runway excursion was the pilot's decision to skip the standard stop-and-align procedure on the altisurface.
- The pilot's actions were influenced by observing another aircraft perform a similar maneuver, leading to overconfidence.
- The aircraft sustained heavy damage to the tailwheel, vertical stabilizer, and rudder, with the rudder found jammed in a hard-right position.
- The landing at Albertville was complicated by the loss of directional control due to the damaged flight controls.