What happened
On 10 May 2017, an Aero AT-3 R100, registration G-SWLL, was performing a private flight departing from Sywell Aerodrome in Northamptonshire. During the takeoff roll on Runway 21R, under light and variable easterly wind conditions, the pilot applied engine power, which caused the aircraft to yaw slightly to the left. While this initial movement was typical for this aircraft type, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control after liftoff.
The aircraft continued to yaw to the left despite rudder inputs. As the left wing dropped, the propeller and the left main wheel made contact with the runway surface. Although the pilot briefly managed to lift the wing and keep the aircraft airborne, the continued leftward rotation led to a second impact with the ground. The aircraft eventually came to a stop after the excursion. The pilot successfully shut down the electrics and fuel supply before exiting the aircraft safely. The incident resulted in no injuries, though the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, nosewheel, left main wheel, and the fuselage section above the left wing.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of the takeoff roll and the pilot's attempts to maintain the centerline. The investigation established that the pilot was operating under a Light Aircraft Pilot’s Licence with 524 total flying hours, though only two hours had been completed on this specific type.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a continuous leftward yaw following liftoff that could not be corrected by the pilot.
- The pilot failed to timely assess and rectify the low-speed, unstable condition of the aircraft as it left the ground.