What happened
On 6 May 2018, a Pierre Robin R2100A, registration G-BICS, was attempting a private flight from Eaton Bray Farm Airfield in Bedfordshire to Sandown Airport. The pilot elected to use Runway 2/11, which involved a slight tailwind, to maintain distance from nearby structures.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft reached an airspeed of 40 kt approximately 400 m along the runway, but failed to continue accelerating as expected. The aircraft subsequently collided with a 2 m high hedge at the far end of the runway at an estimated speed of 45 kt. Both the pilot and the passenger escaped the substantial damage to the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the aircraft's configuration, engine performance, and runway availability. It was noted that the engine was being operated on condition and was showing signs of wear, reaching only 2,300 rpm, which is the minimum required for takeoff.
Investigators found that the aircraft's flaps were inadvertently left in the fully extended position, rather than the takeoff setting. The pilot suggested this error may have been caused by the distraction of having a passenger on board. Furthermore, while the pilot had previously measured the runway at 615 m, aerial imagery suggested a shorter length of approximately 549 m, which was consistent with the airfield's official website.
Findings
- The takeoff distance required to clear a 50 ft obstacle exceeded the distance available on the runway.
- The aircraft was operating at a heavy weight, near its maximum limits.
- The engine was worn, providing less performance than the ideal conditions specified in the flight manual.
- The pilot attempted to "pull" the aircraft into ground effect, which increased drag and further hindered acceleration.
- The incorrect flap setting, while having a minor effect on the ground roll, would have significantly degraded climb performance had the aircraft become airborne.