BSV no. 53: a microlight accident in Réunion

Safety

In September 2018, the BEA published its investigation report on the accident involving the RANS S-6ES "Coyote II" three-axis microlight registered 974GQ, which occurred on 30 March 2015 at Tan Rouge on Réunion Island.

The whole Safety section

The Analyst's analysis - BSV no.53

rans coyote

In September 2018, the BEA published its investigation report into the accident involving the three-axis microlight RANS S-6ES "Coyote II", registration 974GQ, which occurred on 30 March 2015 at Tan Rouge on Réunion Island.

Both occupants were killed.

The full report can be viewed on the BEA website, case number BEA2015-0134
https://www.bea.aero/no_cache/les-enquetes/acces-aux-rapports/

It is unfortunately clear that this is an accumulation of carelessness and negligence which, taken together, ended in a fatal accident, even though this microlight was being used for paid air experience flights.

All microlight manufacturers must demonstrate the conformity of their aircraft and, as a result, supply an operating and maintenance manual specific to each model. The same applies to engine manufacturers. Although the regime is "declaratory", nothing allows owners to avoid the recommended maintenance schedule or the traceability of the products used.

The fact that the supervisory authority does not implicitly monitor the normal operation of microlights does not mean that the owner can or should disregard the rules for maintaining their aircraft.

Let us also remember that under the order of 23 September 1998 on powered ultralight aircraft, any major modification must be declared following the proper procedure; failing that, the identification card is suspended.

We can only urge every owner-pilot to keep track of the airworthiness of their aircraft and the proper traceability of maintenance work. This is a matter of basic safety for everyone.

As a corollary, a well-maintained machine remains safe. Doubt must not creep in at this level, and if you feel a lack of skill, do not hesitate to seek advice: overall safety depends on it.

laurent kerbrat

Laurent Kerbrat

Flight Safety Analyst

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Safety in Figures

The table below summarises the accident statistics recorded from 1 January to 30 September 2018, ranking casualties by severity and distinguishing purely material-damage accidents. The second table shows accidents involving microlights registered in France that took place abroad with foreign crews.