What happened
On 17 April 2018, a DH82A Tiger Moth, registration G-AXBW, was involved in an accident at Wishanger Park, Frensham, Surrey. The flight was a private operation intended to provide familiarisation training for a new syndicate member. The pilot in command was occupying the front seat while the trainee occupied the rear seat.
During the takeoff roll, the wind was measured at approximately 12 kt from the left, which was near the maximum allowable crosswind limit for departure. The pilot in command permitted the trainee to take control for the takeoff. As the aircraft accelerated, it became airborne at a speed 5 kt lower than the standard unstick speed. At this moment, the pilot in an attempt to take control, called out "airspeed." Simultaneously, a gust of wind lifted the left wing, leading to a stall of the right wing. This caused the aircraft to descend and veer to the right at an altitude of roughly 10 ft. The aircraft subsequently struck a wooden fence situated parallel to the grass runway, resulting in the aircraft coming to rest on its nose. There were no injuries to the two crew members.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the flight conditions, the aircraft's performance during the takeoff roll, and the pilot's decision-making process regarding the crosswind limits and the handover of controls. The inspection of the aircraft revealed damage to the engine cowling, propeller, wings, and landing gear.