What happened
On 16 April 2015, a De Havilland DH82A Tiger Moth, registration G-BYTN, was performing an aerial work flight near Netherthorpe Airfield in Nottinghamshire. The aircraft, carrying one pilot and one passenger, was configured with full fuel and was operating at a weight approximately 32 kg below its maximum takeoff weight.
During the takeoff roll on a grass runway, the aircraft encountered an undulation that briefly lifted the aircraft before it touched down again. The pilot attempted a second takeoff, utilizing more of the available runway. To assist with acceleration under the heavy load, the pilot allowed the aircraft to remain in ground effect. However, as the pilot attempted to climb, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient altitude and the rate of climb diminished. The pilot noted an airspeed of approximately 36-37 kt and attempted to lower the nose to regain energy, which caused the aircraft to sink.
Recognizing the impending impact with buildings and hedgerows, the pilot opted to land in an adjacent oil seed rape field. During the landing, the aircraft's left wingtip contacted the crops and the ground. In an attempt to correct the aircraft's direction, the right wingtip and main landing gear struck the earth, causing the aircraft to flip onto its back. There were no fatalities or injuries to the crew or passenger.
The investigation
The investigation examined the takeoff performance, the aircraft's weight, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigators looked into the pilot's use of the runway and the impact of the aircraft's weight on its ability to climb. The investigation also considered the possibility of engine power fluctuations due to heat build-up, although manufacturers of the engine and aircraft type found no evidence of such a systemic issue in well-maintained units.