What happened
On May 27, 2007, a Synairgie SkyRanger ultralight, identified as 31-BY, was participating in a gyroplane gathering at the Bois-de-la-Pierre ultralight airfield. The pilot, flying a cross-country mission, approached runway 31 from a downwind position. During the final approach, the pilot intentionally chose a touchdown point further down the runway to minimize the distance required for the aircraft to come to a stop.
As the aircraft reached the flare, it drifted toward the right side of the runway. The aircraft touched down approximately 150 meters past the runway threshold and began to skid toward the right. In an attempt to correct the situation, the pilot initiated a go-around. This decision caused the aircraft to yaw sharply to the right, leading it to exit the runway and collide with protective barriers positioned in front of the spectators. The impact resulted in one injury to a ground official located near the runway edge.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's maneuvers during the landing phase and the environmental conditions present at the time. Investigators noted that the wind at the airfield was 15 knots from 270 degrees, creating a significant crosswind component for the approach on runway 31. The examination also reviewed the pilot's decision-making process regarding the touchdown point and the subsequent application of power during the skid.
Findings
- The pilot lacked sufficient knowledge of crosswind landing techniques.
- The pilot's decision to shift the touchdown point further down the runway contributed to the loss of control.
- The inappropriate decision to initiate a go-around after the aircraft had already begun to skid exacerbated the excursion and the severity of the collision.