Accident to the Piper PA46 registered N149C on 29/05/2023 at La Môle

On completion of the engine tests and before taking off, the pilot did not set the friction lock. He did not give an oral briefing before take-off, and probably did not have an action plan in the event of an abnormal situation occurring during take-off.

During the take-off run, the pilot focused on the speed and did not monitor the expected engine parameters, in particular the torque. It is probable that the position of his hand did not guarantee full control of the throttle control. Two hundred metres after releasing the brakes, the pilot questioned the acceleration of the aeroplane but thought it was a false impression. He then twice hesitated about rejecting the take-off, but continued with it.

Perceiving that he was approaching the end of the runway, he anticipated the rotation. The speed was not sufficient to allow the aeroplane to rise and clear the low obstacles located on the runway axis. Realising that he was unable to accelerate and climb, the pilot chose to reduce power and land in the field located beyond the end of the runway.