What happened
On 29 August 2016, a Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, registration G-OROD, was engaged in a private flight at Old Sarum Airfield in Wiltshire. During the takeoff roll, the pilot applied full power; however, the aircraft failed to accelerate as expected.
As the takeoff was abandoned, the aircraft began to veer toward the right. The pilot attempted to counteract this movement using differential braking and opposite rudder, but the deviation from the runway centerline could not be arrested. To prevent a potential collision with other aircraft on the airfield, the pilot applied maximum braking to both wheels. This sudden deceleration caused the aircraft to pitch forward onto its nose, resulting in minor damage to the engine cowling and the propeller.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry focused on the loss of directional control and the mechanical state of the braking system. The pilot noted that the aircraft was not performing normally during the initial application of power and identified a specific mechanical issue regarding the right brake unit.