What happened
On 23 March 2016, a Pegasus Quik, registration G-GBEE, was engaged in a dual instructional flight at Redlands Airfield, Swindon. The purpose of the flight was to provide refresher training for a pilot who had not flown weight-shift microlights for 14 years.
During the takeoff roll on Runway 06S, the pilot under training initially applied full power while maintaining a neutral control bar position. As the aircraft gained speed, the pilot suddenly decided to abort the takeoff, closing the throttle and applying the brakes. Although the aircraft's wheels began to skid, the instructor believed there was sufficient runway remaining to stop.
In an attempt to prevent the aircraft from overrunning the runway and hitting a boundary hedge, the pilot attempted a second takeoff. During this maneuver, the pilot pushed the control bar forward to lift off but then pulled it fully back while inadvertently keeping the throttle at full power. Realizing a collision was unavoidable, the instructor shut down the engine via the magneto switches, but the aircraft struck the hedge before stopping.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances surrounding the takeoff technique and the pilot's decision-making. The investigation established that the pilot under training had been receiving instruction on the specific handling characteristics of the Pegasus Quik, as his previous experience was on a different aircraft model.
The investigation also reviewed the sequence of the aborted takeoff. It was noted that the pilot's decision to abandon the initial takeoff roll was followed by a rapid attempt to regain flight by applying power and manipulating the control bar. The investigation confirmed that the engine was still at full power when the aircraft impacted the hedge, despite the instructor's attempt to kill the engine.
Findings
- The pilot under training had not flown weight-shift microlights for 14 years.
- The pilot attempted to prevent a runway overrun by initiating a second takeoff attempt after an initial abort.
- The pilot inadvertently maintained full throttle power while pulling the control bar fully back during the second takeoff attempt.
- The instructor suffered a broken metatarsal in his right foot, while the pilot remained uninjured.
- The aircraft sustained extensive damage to the control frame and trike pod.