What happened
On June 10, 2017, a private pilot operating a Turbulent Druine D31 Experimental, registered HB-SVB, departed from Bad Ragaz Airport (LSZE) for a flight toward Schaffhausen. The flight was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) as part of a planned two-day excursion to the Jura region. Shortly after takeoff from runway 30, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power.
Due to the presence of high-voltage power lines crossing the flight path directly ahead, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft to the right, following the line of the wires, and then turned eastward. The pilot declared an emergency and attempted to return to runway 30. The aircraft ultimately landed in a grassy area to the left of the runway. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a row of bushes, resulting in significant damage to the aircraft and minor damage to the surrounding property. One third party sustained light injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the cause of the engine power loss and the circumstances of the emergency landing. The pilot reported that the engine had been started manually without issue and that the fuel load consisted of 30 liters of gasoline. The investigation established that the pilot was aware of the specific nature of the power loss, as a similar issue had occurred following a mandatory overhaul ordered by the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (BAZL).