What happened
On 25 July 1999, an Avid Speed Wing (Modified), registration G-BVIV, was performing a private flight from a grass farm strip in Worcester to Barton Airport. During the departure, the pilot conducted a power check before applying full power to begin the take-off roll on a runway heading of 050°.
Environmental conditions at the time included an outside air temperature of +23°C and a northerly wind of 8 knots, gusting to 12 knots. As the aircraft progressed, it encountered a slight uphill gradient which resulted in slower-than-normal acceleration. Upon reaching the crest of this slope, the runway transitioned into a steep decline. Realising there was inadequate runway remaining to reach flying speed, the pilot decided to abandon the take-off. Despite the application of brakes, the aircraft continued down the strip and collided with a hedge at the end of the field. Both the pilot and the passenger, who were wearing three-point harnesses, escaped the aircraft without any injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot. The aircraft sustained structural damage to the front fuselage, a broken propeller, and the right main landing gear was bent backwards. The investigation examined the factors affecting the aircraft's acceleration and the effectiveness of the braking during the aborted departure.
Findings
- The aircraft's acceleration was hindered by the combination of high ambient temperatures and the initial uphill section of the strip.
- The pilot noted the possibility that the brakes may have been dragging because his feet were not entirely clear of the pedals.
- The steep downslope following the initial uphill section, combined with the short remaining distance, prevented the aircraft from stopping before hitting the hedge.