What happened
On 7 May 2017, a Rans S6-ES Coyote II, registration G-SBAP, was performing a private flight from Belle Vue Airfield in North Devon. During the takeoff roll on Runway 08, the aircraft experienced a sudden pitch-up motion accompanied by a leftward roll. This instability caused the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a fence located adjacent to the airfield.
The impact began with the port wing striking the fence, followed by the undercarriage and the propeller. The force of the collision caused the aircraft to spin around, eventually coming to a halt facing the start of the runway. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained significant damage to the engine, left wing, and fuselage, rendering it a total loss.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of directional control. The pilot reported that the initial pitch-up may have been triggered by a runway bump or a sudden gust of wind. During the event, the pilot attempted to counteract the rolling motion. However, the pilot noted that these corrective actions at low airspeed might have inadvertently worsened the pitch and roll, creating a sensation similar to an aerodynamic stall.
Findings
- The aircraft's departure from the runway was initiated by a sudden pitch and roll.
- The pilot's attempts to correct the roll at low speed may have exacerbated the aircraft's instability.
- The collision with the fence resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond economic repair.