What happened
On 27 July 2001, a Bolkow BO-208C Junior, registration G-ATUI, was performing a private flight from Popham Airfield in Hampshire. During the takeoff roll on the grass Runway 26, the pilot noted that wind conditions were initially calm. As the aircraft reached a speed of 50 kt IAS, it failed to accelerate further or lift off as anticipated.
Recognizing the lack of progress, the pilot initiated an aborted takeoff. Due to limited remaining runway length, the pilot steered the aircraft into the longer grass adjacent to the runway to assist in deceleration. During this maneuver, the nose leg of the aircraft broke, causing the aircraft to tip forward. The wingtips subsequently struck the ground before the aircraft came to a halt. There were no injuries to the pilot or the single passenger, both of whom were secured in four-point harnesses.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and the aircraft's performance during the takeoff run. At the time of the incident, the temperature was 30°C with a QNH of 1018mb. The investigation considered the pilot's assessment of the runway remaining and the possibility of changing wind conditions. The pilot suggested that a tailwind may have developed during the takeoff roll, which would have hindered acceleration. The aircraft sustained damage to the engine cowling, wingtips, and propeller, along with a broken nose leg.