On November 29, 2006, an Eurostar EV 97 was involved in an aviation accident near Senftenbach, Wolfau, Oberösterreich, AT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Structural failure of the left wing following a low flight and abrupt pull-up maneuver. This summary draws on records from the Austrian Federal Safety Investigation Authority (SUB).
On 29 November 2006, an Eurostar EV 97 ultralight crashed in Wolfau after its left wing failed during a low flight with an abrupt pull-up. Both occupants died and the aircraft was destroyed.
Accident Overview
On 29 November 2006, a pilot conducted two local flights with an Eurostar EV 97 ultralight aircraft from an external landing site in Wolfau. The first flight proceeded without any reported issues. The second flight, however, ended in a fatal crash.
Sequence of Events
During the second flight, the aircraft performed a low-altitude pass. Immediately after, the pilot executed an abrupt pull-up maneuver. This sudden change in acceleration induced structural stress on the left wing, causing it to fail. The left wing separated from the fuselage in flight. Deprived of lift on one side, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed into a nearby forested area.
Casualties and Damage
Both occupants of the aircraft sustained fatal injuries in the crash. The ultralight aircraft was completely destroyed.
Probable cause
Structural failure of the left wing following a low flight and abrupt pull-up maneuver.