What happened
On 23 July 2022, a Luscombe 8E, registration G-BSYF, was conducting a private flight from Coldharbour Farm Airfield to Fenland Airfield. While flying near Kings Lynn, the engine began running roughly. After attempting to use carburettor heat without success, the pilot performed a precautionary landing in a nearby field to avoid further issues.
Following the landing, the pilot inspected the engine and fuel system, concluding that the previous power loss was likely due to carburettor icing. To avoid the logistical difficulty and potential damage of dismantling the aircraft for road transport, the pilot decided to attempt a takeoff from the field. The pilot identified two narrow tracks left by farm machinery to use as a makeshift runway.
During the takeoff run, the aircraft failed to reach the necessary speed to lift the main wheels, partly due to surface conditions and a slight crosswind. The pilot aborted the takeoff by closing the throttle and applying brakes. However, due to the difficulty of maintaining visibility and the uneven application of the heel brakes, the aircraft veered left, leaving the narrow tracks and catching in the sugar beet crop. The resistance from the crops, combined with braking forces, caused the tail to lift and the aircraft to nose into the ground, eventually coming to rest inverted. The pilot escaped the wreckage without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the takeoff area and the pilot's decision-making process. Investigators noted that the tracks used for the takeoff were less than one metre wide, significantly narrower than the 18 m width recommended by CAP 793 for unlicensed aerodromes. Furthermore, the height of the sugar beet crop was found to be approximately the same diameter as the aircraft's main wheels, which contradicts safety guidance suggesting grass height should be no more than 30% of the wheel diameter.
Findings
- The takeoff area provided almost no margin for directional correction.
- The pilot's decision to attempt the takeoff was likely influenced by the risk of damage during dismantling and the significant distance required for recovery.
- The aircraft suffered extensive damage to the airframe, engine, and windscreen.
- The pilot was able to exit the aircraft uninjured after kicking the door open.