What happened
On 26 August 2016, a Piper PA-28-180 Cherokee, registration G-AZDX, was preparing for a private flight from a grass airfield near Hundon, Suffolk, to St Omer, France. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and three passengers. Following a standard takeoff roll, the aircraft became airborne as expected; however, immediately after lift-off, the engine suffered a sudden reduction in power. Unable to maintain a climb, the pilot maintained wings level and executed a forced landing through a hedge into a field located at the end of the runway. The impact resulted in the right wing being severed, along with severe damage to the left wing and the right tailplane. All four occupants escaped the wreckage without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's configuration and the circumstances leading up to the power loss. Prior to departure, the aircraft had been refuelled with enough fuel for the intended trip, including reserves for a diversion, and was operating below its maximum takeoff weight. Pre-flight checks, including engine start and vital parameters, showed normal pressures and temperatures. During the takeoff roll, the fuel pump was operational and the carburettor heat was set to the cold position. The pilot, who was highly experienced on this aircraft type, noted that the takeoff performance was initially normal before the engine failure occurred.