What happened
On May 5, 2000, at approximately 16:30, a Jodel D 113 amateur-built aircraft, registered F-PKMN, was involved in a runway excursion at Albertville Aerodrome. The aircraft, operated by a flying club, was being flown by a pilot conducting solo training following several circuits with an instructor.
During the takeoff roll for the final circuit of the session, the pilot perceived a potential engine failure, noting unusual noises and insufficient RPM. In response to this perceived malfunction, the pilot initiated an aborted takeoff by reducing power and applying the brakes. However, the pilot was unable to maintain the aircraft's trajectory. The aircraft veered off the right side of the runway and overturned in tall grass approximately 40 meters from the runway edge.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the takeoff roll and the mechanical state of the Continental O-200-A engine. Investigators examined the aircraft for any evidence of power loss or mechanical failure that could have prompted the pilot's decision to abort the takeoff. Post-accident inspections of the engine revealed that the powerplant had functioned normally and no mechanical defects were detected.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine cowling, and canopy.
- There were no mechanical defects found in the engine following the event.
- The primary cause of the excursion was inappropriate control inputs during the aborted takeoff attempt.