What happened
On April 20, 2001, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration EC-BXB) was performing dual-instruction flight operations at Son Bonet Aerodrome in the Balearic Islands. After completing several successful takeoffs and landings on runway 06, the pilot initiated a new takeoff roll. After passing the first third of the runway, the pilot retracted the flaps and increased power.
As the aircraft reached approximately 600 meters of the runway—roughly two-thirds of the available distance—the pilot observed a flock of seagulls taking flight directly in front of the aircraft. At this moment, the aircraft was traveling at 83 knots, which was 7 knots below the rotation speed (Vr) of 90 knots, but 3 knots above the decision speed (V1) of 80 knots. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff by cutting power and applying maximum braking.
Due to recent rainfall, the runway surface was wet, which reduced braking effectiveness. The aircraft failed to stop within the remaining runway length, overran the end of the pavement, and struck the aerodrome's perimeter fence. The aircraft then crossed an adjacent road before coming to a halt in a nearby field. The impact with the fence caused significant damage to the wings, nose, and propellers, and caused the landing gear to collapse, resulting in the aircraft sliding on its fuselage.
All 4 occupants were uninjured.
The investigation
The CIAIAC examined the flight sequence, the aircraft's maintenance records, and the environmental conditions. The investigation reviewed the pilot's statement regarding the decision to abort the takeoff due to bird activity and compared it against the aircraft's performance capabilities. Investigators also considered witness testimony suggesting the aircraft may have briefly lifted off the ground before returning to the runway, which would imply an even higher speed at the time of the abort attempt. The investigation also noted the impact of the wet runway surface on the braking distance.