Accident to the DTA Dynamic – 15/430 identified 67BLZ on 07/06/2020 at Sarrebourg-Buhl (Moselle)

Cat. 2 investigation report: simplified-format report, adapted to the circumstances of the occurrence and the investigation stakes.

At the end of a cross-country flight, the pilot joined the downwind leg of the destination aerodrome. He made a U-shaped approach to align on final to land on unpaved runway 22. The pilot initiated his right turn in descent and with insufficient distance in relation to the runway threshold, putting him on a steep approach path on final. The pilot continued the turn and was unable to avoid collision with the ground.

The investigation was unable to determine the reasons why the pilot continued the turn, notably whether this was intentional or the result of a loss of control of the microlight after an uncontrolled start of turn.

The hypothesis of an intentional 360° turn to delay landing due to traffic present in the opposite base leg cannot be ruled out.

Possible faintness experienced by the pilot during the turn can also not be ruled out.