What happened
On May 14, 2003, a Robin DR 400-160, registered F-GTZY, was performing training maneuvers at Lesparre aerodrome. The flight, consisting of a pilot and an instructor, had departed from Bordeaux Mérignac to conduct circuit exercises. During the first touch-and-go maneuver, the aircraft touched down on the unpaved runway. Following the landing, the pilot began reconfiguring the aircraft for takeoff and applied full power. However, as the aircraft reached the taxiway area, the instructor noted a sudden reduction in engine power. Believing the takeoff was compromised, the instructor applied the brakes to abort the maneuver. The aircraft subsequently exited the runway, struck an electric fence, and came to a halt approximately 60 meters beyond the runway end.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the actions of the crew during the reconfiguration phase of the touch-and-go exercise. Investigators examined the flight experience of both occupants, noting that while the instructor was highly experienced, the pilot had relatively limited hours on this specific type. The investigation also reviewed the environmental conditions at the time, which included a wind of 360 degrees at 10 knots and good visibility. The crew provided accounts regarding the sequence of power applications, with the pilot noting that the reconfiguration process took longer than expected and that he could not recall reducing the power after the initial application of full throttle.