Introduction
On 30 May 2016 at approximately 1100 hours UTC, an Ikarus C42 FB UK microlight aircraft, registration G-IKUS, was involved in an accident during takeoff from Strubby Airfield in Lincolnshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 2004 and powered by a single Rotax 912ULS piston engine, sustained substantial damage. The pilot and one passenger both suffered minor injuries.
Accident Details
The pilot was attempting to take off from a mown strip of grass oriented perpendicular to and north of the asphalt runway at Strubby Airfield. The strip, which the pilot referred to as Runway 36, was not a designated runway according to the airfield owner. Using commercially available aerial imagery, the length of the mown strip was estimated to be 140 meters.
During the takeoff, the pilot realised that the aircraft would not clear a hedge at the end of the strip. In an effort to avoid the hedge, he turned the aircraft, which subsequently impacted the ground. The pilot estimated the hedge height to be between three and four meters.
Pilot Experience
The pilot, aged 56 years, held a National Private Pilot’s Licence. His total flying experience was 1,450 hours, of which 1,092 hours were on type. In the preceding 90 days he had flown 35 hours, and in the last 28 days, 12 hours.
Aircraft and Performance
The takeoff weight of the aircraft was reported as 446 kg. Manufacturer’s performance data indicates that at a maximum takeoff weight of 450 kg, the takeoff distance required to clear a 15-meter obstacle is 205 meters. The pilot stated that he had successfully taken off from the strip on previous occasions, but believed that on the accident flight, his ability to climb was compromised by rotor effect from the hedge.
Additional Information
The CAA Safety Sense Leaflet 7c (‘Aeroplane Performance’) provides reminders to pilots regarding the necessary actions to ensure adequate takeoff performance for the prevailing conditions.