What happened
On 23 September 2020, a Rockwell Commander 112, registration G-LITE, was performing a private flight from Perranporth Airfield in Cornwall. After arriving from Shropshire to collect passengers, the pilot prepared for a return departure using Runway 27. The flight included the pilot and two passengers.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft initially appeared to accelerate normally and lifted off at approximately 60 kt. However, the aircraft failed to climb and settled back onto the runway, triggering the stall warning. Upon the second attempt to climb, the aircraft stalled and struck the runway with significant force. There was insufficient remaining runway to stop the aircraft, resulting in an overrun that caused extensive damage to the landing gear and left wing. All three occupants escaped the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's weight and balance, the environmental conditions at the airfield, and the availability of aeronautical information. The pilot had calculated a takeoff weight of 2,635 lbs, which was 15 lbs below the maximum allowable limit of 2,650 lbs. This calculation was based on reported weights for the pilot, passengers, and fuel, though evidence suggested these figures may have been underestimated.
Investigators also looked into the wind conditions at the time. While Newquay Airport reported a 14 kt wind, the proximity of sea cliffs at the end of Runway 27 creates a known risk of windshear and turbulence. The investigation found that the pilot was unaware of specific warnings regarding 'Rotor/Curl-over' effects on Runway 27, as the flight planning software used did not include these aerodrome warnings, and the airfield's booking process did not routinely communicate such hazards.
Findings
- The aircraft was probably over its maximum takeoff weight at the time of departure.
- The aircraft likely encountered windshear or turbulence associated with the cliffs at the end of the runway.
- The pilot was unaware of the specific wind hazards associated with Runway 27 due to a lack of integrated warning information in planning tools and airfield communications.
Safety action
- Runway 09/27 has been removed from normal operations; use of this runway now requires specific authorization and awareness of its limitations.
- The airfield owner and the local flying club are reviewing their websites to ensure appropriate safety information is provided to pilots.