Synopsis
On 29 July 2006 at approximately 17:25 local time, an Ecolight Eurostar EV 97 (model 2000 version R), registration HB-WAV, operated by AVIAECO, crashed into Lake Neuchâtel about 900 meters off the port of Auvernier/NE, 5 km southwest of Neuchâtel. The pilot was the sole occupant and was seriously injured. The aircraft sank rapidly; the pilot managed to exit the wreckage and was rescued by nearby boaters. The wreckage was located on 5 August 2006 at a depth of about 80 meters using a camera-equipped submarine and was recovered on 12 August 2006.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was an Ecolight Eurostar EV 97, certified in Switzerland. The pilot held a valid license and had recorded flight experience details noted in the investigation. The aircraft was equipped with a ballistic rescue system (BRS) which was not deployed.
Accident Sequence
After completing a pre-flight inspection and engine check, the pilot took off from asphalt runway 05 at Neuchâtel aerodrome shortly before 17:25. After clearing trees at the end of the runway, the pilot encountered strong resistance in the elevator controls. He attempted to stabilize the aircraft, but it collided with the lake surface and sank. The pilot later stated he had reduced power and set flaps to zero after reaching 5200 rpm.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the canopy was unlocked and had opened during flight. The elevator trim was found set to the nose-up position. The engine and propeller showed no pre-impact anomalies. The seat belts were examined and found to be intact. The investigation did not indicate any mechanical failure.
Cause
The accident was caused by a collision of the aircraft with a water surface due to loss of control by the pilot. Contributing factors were:
- Opening of the unlocked plexiglass canopy
- Elevator trim set to the nose-up position