Accident
At 1108 UTC on 4 September 2016, an Aero AT-3 R100, registration G-SACY, was conducting a private circuit detail near Sherburn-in-Elmet Airfield, Yorkshire. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed that the front-hinged canopy had started to open on the right side. He attempted to reseat it while continuing the circuit, intending to land. At an altitude of 1,000 ft, the canopy lifted approximately 10 to 12 inches. The pilot became concerned that further opening could affect aircraft handling. A “great increase in wind and noise within the cabin” was reported, and the aircraft began to descend. The pilot held the canopy and decided to land immediately in a bare-earth field ahead. During the landing roll, the aircraft overturned, sustaining damage beyond economic repair. The pilot, the sole occupant, suffered minor injuries.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was an Aero AT-3 R100, serial number AT3-029, manufactured in 2007. It was powered by one Rotax 912-S2 piston engine. At the time of the accident, the aircraft had accumulated 102 hours of total flying time, of which 5 hours were on type. The pilot’s last 90 days included 6 hours of flying, and the last 28 days included 2 hours.
Pilot Information
The commander, aged 39, held a Private Pilot’s Licence. His total flying experience was 102 hours, with 5 hours on the Aero AT-3 type. No other information about the pilot was provided.
Previous Occurrences
A similar accident occurred in June 2012 involving another Aero AT-3 R100, registration G-SRUM, reported in AAIB Bulletin 10/2012. That investigation concluded that articles would be published by the Civil Aviation Authority and the Light Aircraft Association urging care in the operation and maintenance of the locking mechanism, including the need for a thorough understanding and a double-check that the locks are secure before flight.