Accident to the Robin DR400 registered F-HMYY on 05/08/2021 at Glandon Pass
Collision with trees, fire, during a flight through a valley in a mountainous area
After passing Albertville, the pilot took a southerly track that did not appear to be consistent with his intended destination. The investigation was not able to determine the reasons that led the pilot to head in this direction, and in particular whether it was intentional or not.
The pilot then entered the valley leading to the Col du Glandon pass and followed a direct track towards the pass. This direct flight path, given the aeroplane's performance and the altitude at which it entered the valley, did not leave the aeroplane sufficient time to gain the altitude required to cross the pass. As a result, although the aeroplane gained altitude, it gradually approached the ground and the slopes of the valley. Furthermore, flying in the centre of the valley, the pilot had only half the space available to perform a U-turn.
As the height decreased, it would have become increasingly difficult for a pilot without mountain flight experience, to manoeuvre in the absence of a natural horizon which was concealed by the high ground. The pilot thus continued on his path while getting closer and closer to the ground. The aeroplane struck obstacles around five minutes after entering the valley.