Accident Overview
On 5 September 2015 at 16:30 UTC, a Cessna 210D Centurion (registration G-OWAN, serial number 210-58321) sustained damage during a takeoff accident at Tosside Airstrip, Lancashire. The single-engine aircraft, powered by a Continental Motors Corp IO-520-A piston engine, was operated on a private flight with only the pilot on board. The pilot, aged 68, held a Commercial Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 6,623 flying hours, with 100 hours on type. No injuries were reported.
Sequence of Events
The pilot had delayed departure for approximately eight hours following overnight rain to allow the grass runway to dry. The runway was walked to assess its condition. The takeoff was conducted downhill, beginning at the start of the strip oriented in a 170° direction. A tailwind of about 5 kt was reported. The initial part of the takeoff run appeared normal, but as the aircraft became light, it veered left. Despite full right rudder and brake application, the aircraft left the runway onto the adjacent field. It began to decelerate and, even with full power, the nosewheel contacted the ground. The pilot closed the throttle and mixture, but despite full back pressure on the control column, the aircraft came to a rapid stop and became inverted. The pilot then turned off the ignition, fuel, and electrical power, released his harness, and vacated the aircraft through the left door.
Aircraft Damage
The left wing strut was bent, and the right wingtip, rear fuselage, and fin were damaged.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot considered that a small patch of soft earth had caused the initial swing, and as the aircraft was nearly airborne, the brake had little effect.