Accident Details
On 27 December 2018 at 1330 UTC, a privately operated Europa aircraft, registration G-BVOW, was involved in an accident during takeoff at MOD Boscombe Down, Wiltshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1996 and powered by one Rotax 912-UL piston engine, was being flown by a 60-year-old pilot holding a Private Pilot's Licence. The pilot had a total flying experience of 101 hours, with 6 hours on type.
Narrative
The pilot planned to perform circuits on grass Runway 35. Weather conditions were fine with calm wind. During the takeoff roll, as the airspeed reached approximately 40 kt, the tail lifted and the aircraft began deviating to the left. The pilot reported applying right rudder, but the aircraft continued to move left, transitioning from grass to a tarmac section before rotating further left. The pilot, wearing a full harness, was uninjured. Damage was sustained to the propeller, windscreen, fuselage, and wingtips.
Analysis
On this aircraft type, propeller slipstream requires right rudder to maintain heading. After the tailwheel lifts, the aircraft balances solely on the mainwheel, making the slipstream effect more prominent. The pilot considered that his application of right rudder was insufficient or not quick enough to arrest the left deviation.