Canopy failure during takeoff at Lydd Airport

Casualties unknown • Lydd Airport, Kent, GB

A pilot flying a CAP 232 experienced a canopy opening during the initial climb, leading to a heavy bounce on the runway.

What happened

On 29 July 2016, a CAP 232, registration G-GODV, was performing a private flight from Lydd Airport in Kent. The pilot was preparing for a long-distance journey through Germany to Poland to compete in an aerobatics championship.

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot discovered that the aircraft canopy was not fully secured. It had been left in a partially open position, a setting the pilot frequently utilized to improve cockpit airflow during taxiing. While attempting to reach for the canopy handle to close it, the pilot inadvertently caused the canopy to open further. This sudden change in aerodynamics caused the aircraft to descend rapidly and strike the runway with significant force, resulting in a heavy bounce before the aircraft regained flight.

During the incident, the airflow dislodged the pilot's sunglasses, headset, and contact lenses. However, the pilot was able to access a spare pair of glasses located within reach. Despite the disruption, the pilot managed to restrain the canopy as much as possible and focused on maintaining control of the aircraft. The flight was completed by performing a circuit and executing a successful landing.

The investigation

The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the canopy opening and the pilot's actions during the flight. The investigation also looked into the physical impact of the incident, which resulted in damage to the aircraft's canopy and landing gear, though no injuries were sustained by the crew.

Findings

  • The pilot failed to ensure the canopy was fully locked in the closed position before takeoff.
  • The pilot's attempt to close the canopy while airborne caused it to open further.
  • The pilot's focus on the upcoming aerobatics championship and the long-distance transit may have contributed to the oversight during pre-flight preparations.
  • The availability of spare glasses within easy reach was a critical factor in the pilot's ability to continue the flight safely.

Probable cause

The primary cause was the pilot's failure to verify the canopy was fully secured before takeoff, combined with the accidental opening of the canopy while attempting to close it during the climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-07-29 CAP 232 accident near Lydd Airport, Kent, GB?

A pilot flying a CAP 232 experienced a canopy opening during the initial climb, leading to a heavy bounce on the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-07-29 involved a CAP 232, registration G-GODV, at Lydd Airport, Kent, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause was the pilot's failure to verify the canopy was fully secured before takeoff, combined with the accidental opening of the canopy while attempting to close it during the climb.

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