What happened
On 21 April 2014, a Wittman W10 Tailwind, registration G-BOIB, was performing a private flight from a grass airstrip located near Winchester. The aircraft was attempting a takeoff from runway 24, which measured approximately 450 metres in length. While the initial portion of the takeoff roll appeared standard, the aircraft encountered a significant change in terrain as it approached the midpoint of the strip.
As the aircraft progressed, the ground ahead rose sharply, forcing the aircraft to touch down into a section of very long, wet grass. This contact significantly impeded the aircraft's momentum. Despite the pilot's efforts to continue the takeoff, the aircraft failed to accelerate to flying speed and eventually ran into a hedge. The incident resulted in one minor injury to a passenger, while the pilot remained uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage to its fuselage, tailplane, propeller, landing gear, and right wing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and mechanical factors present during the departure. The pilot noted that while the weather was overcast and dry at the time, recent rainfall had left the grass surface notably wet. The investigation also considered the aircraft's configuration, specifically a recently installed propeller with a coarser pitch. Furthermore, the takeoff was conducted in a downwind direction, which inherently increases the required distance for departure.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in a downwind direction, which increased the takeoff distance required.
- The aircraft encountered long, wet grass that acted to decelerate the aircraft during the takeoff roll.
- The pilot noted the potential for carburettor icing to have contributed to the loss of power.
- A newly fitted propeller with a coarser pitch may have reduced the aircraft's takeoff performance.