Accident Details
On 8 May 2016 at 1300 UTC, a Vans RV-6A, registration G-TOGO, was initiating a takeoff from grass Runway 09 Right at Andrewsfield Airfield, Essex. The pilot reported that the aircraft encountered an unseen obstruction shortly after beginning the takeoff roll. The nose pitched downward and then upward as the aircraft passed over the obstruction. The aircraft continued to accelerate and handle normally, so the pilot elected to proceed with the takeoff. After landing, the nose landing gear fairings were found to be damaged, with grass and earth lodged in the torn fibreglass structures. Further examination revealed that the nose gear leg had been bent.
Flight and Pilot Information
The flight was conducted under a Private license, with one pilot and one passenger on board. Neither occupant sustained injuries. The pilot, aged 68, held a Light Aircraft Pilot's Licence and had accumulated approximately 18,500 total flying hours, of which 598 hours were on the Vans RV-6A type. In the preceding 90 days, the pilot had logged 3 hours of flight time, and in the last 28 days, also 3 hours.
Post-Incident Findings
The pilot speculated that the aircraft may have encountered a shallow gulley or rabbit hole. The aerodrome authority conducted a full runway inspection after being notified of the incident but found no surface irregularities. Several other aircraft used the area both before and after G-TOGO had taken off, with no adverse reports received.