What happened
On 24 October 2018, a EuroFOX 912(S), registration G-CIRP, was performing a private sightseeing flight from Clench Common Airfield in Wiltshire. During the takeoff roll on Runway 33, the pilot attempted to counteract the aircraft's initial yawing tendency by applying right rudder pedal. As the aircraft accelerated, the pilot applied further pedal input to manage the torque reaction as the tail lifted; however, the aircraft began to veer sharply to the right.
Despite the pilot applying left pedal to correct the direction, the turn could not be reversed, and the aircraft failed to reach flying speed. Realising the aircraft was heading toward an obstacle, the pilot aborted the takeoff. The aircraft subsequently struck a fence post and a strand of wire at the edge of the runway. The impact caused minor damage to the propeller, fuselage, and landing gear, but the pilot and passenger sustained no injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and the runway conditions following the event. The runway was noted to be firm with short grass, and the weather was reported as CAVOK with light winds. An inspection of the runway surface revealed tracks left by the right wheel.
Technical examination of the G-CIRP revealed no modifications to the rudder or braking systems. The aircraft, a tail-dragger configuration, featured dual rudder pedals with toe-brakes. The investigation focused on the pilot's control inputs during the critical moments of the takeoff roll.