What happened
On April 8, 2023, at approximately 16:30 local time, a Jodel DR 250-160 aircraft, registered as HB-KFS, was performing a takeoff from the Saulieu-Liernais (LFEW) aerodrome in France. The aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) as part of a private flight. During the initial takeoff phase, the aircraft collided with a pedestrian on the ground. Following the impact, the aircraft overturned, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation into the occurrence was initiated by the French BEA (Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses pour la sécurité de l’aviation civile). The inquiry focused on the sequence of events leading to the collision and the subsequent loss of control of the aircraft. While the aircraft was destroyed, the pilot and two passengers were not injured in the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision between the aircraft and a pedestrian during the takeoff roll.
- The impact caused the aircraft to overturn.
- The accident resulted in one person seriously injured (the pedestrian).
- The aircraft sustained destroyed level of damage.