What happened
On 9 August 2014, a Hoffmann H36 Dimona, registration G-CEUT, was performing a private flight from RAF Wittering, Cambridgeshire. Due to ongoing glider operations on the active runway, the aircraft was utilizing the southern taxiway parallel to Runway 26 for its departure. At the time of the accident, wind conditions were significant, with a recent METAR indicating winds from 250° at 17 knots, gusting up to 27 knots.
During the take-off roll, the left wheel of the aircraft made contact with the runway. Shortly after lift-off, the left wing began to drop, and the aircraft entered a left-hand turn. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying full right rudder and right aileron, but these inputs failed to arrest the movement. As the aircraft turned approximately 70°, the left wing struck the ground. The aircraft then dropped from an altitude of roughly 10 feet and landed with heavy impact. The momentum caused the aircraft to strike a boundary fence and spin an additional 90° before coming to a halt. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the environmental conditions and the aircraft's flight path. The investigation established that the aircraft was operating in gusty conditions. The pilot initially suggested that a gust of wind might have caused the left wing to stall.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine mountings, landing gear, left aileron, rear fuselage, and tail.
- The aircraft was operating in winds gusting up to 27 knots.
- The pilot's control inputs were ineffective in preventing the left wing from dropping and the subsequent ground impact.