What happened
On March 11, 2006, a Robin DR 400 - 140 B, registration F-GYDD, was performing local flight maneuvers at Limoges Airport. The flight, operated by a flying club, included the pilot and one passenger. During the initial approach to runway 03, the pilot encountered significant turbulence. Following an unexpected physical reaction from the passenger, the pilot aborted the approach and entered a right-hand pattern, which was corrected following instructions from air traffic control.
During the landing phase, the pilot encountered wind gusts and rapid changes in airspeed. While attempting to maintain control, the pilot noted difficulty managing the aircraft's trajectory on the ground, observing the aircraft swerving on the roll and yaw axes. The pilot attempted an emergency go-around, but the rotation occurred on the grass area adjacent to the runway.
During a subsequent circuit, the pilot experienced increasing fatigue and stress. Upon landing a second time, the pilot again lost control of the aircraft's ground track. In an attempt to stabilize the situation, the pilot shut down the engine and cut the electrical systems, at which point the aircraft exited the runway to the left. There were no injuries and no damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making, the aircraft's handling characteristics, and the environmental conditions. Investigators examined the pilot's recent flight experience, noting a significant gap in flying between 2000 and 2004 and limited time on this specific aircraft type. The investigation also looked into the cockpit environment, specifically the passenger's actions and the pilot's psychological state.
Findings
- The aircraft's susceptibility to external pressure changes made it difficult to maintain control in the prevailing weather.
- The pilot made the decision to fly despite insufficient performance levels for the day's meteorological conditions, which included 12-knot winds gusting to 20 knots and reported wind shear.
- The pilot experienced high levels of stress and anxiety, exacerbated by the passenger's movements and the challenging wind conditions, which ultimately led to a loss of control during ground operations.