Accident to the Tomark Viper SD4 identified 69AHM on 08/06/2023 at Pouilloux
Engine shutdown in initial climb, loss of control in turn, collision with ground, fire
In initial climb, the pilot experienced an engine shutdown. He then carried out a manoeuvre probably with a view to returning to land on the runway. During the turn, the microlight stalled and then collided with the ground.
The fuel selector was found in the "OFF” position. This position does not seem to be consistent with the decision to return to the aerodrome; what is more, the school instructors do not teach cutting off the fuel in the event of an engine failure in initial climb. It therefore seems unlikely that the pilot modified the fuel selection during the management of the engine shutdown.
The pilot had probably set the selector to the OFF position at the end of the previous flight and then forgot to open the fuel supply during the before-flight actions. In the absence of a warning, the pilot probably took off with the fuel supply closed and the engine shut down after using the remaining quantity of fuel contained in the system.
The investigation was unable to determine why the pilot tried to come back to the runway rather than continuing on the extended axis of the runway, where the environment was suitable for an emergency landing.