What happened
On 7 May 2000, a CEA DR400/160, registration G-TUKE, was involved in an accident at Deanland Airfield, East Sussex, during a private flight. Following a landing on Runway 24, the pilot was instructed to utilize Runway 06 for the subsequent departure. During the initial takeoff attempt on Runway 06, the aircraft failed to achieve satisfactory acceleration.
Seeking to complete the departure, the pilot attempted a second takeoff using Runway 24. However, the aircraft again failed to accelerate adequately. The pilot subsequently closed the throttle and applied the brakes, but the aircraft overran the runway and entered a ploughed field. Both occupants of the aircraft, who were wearing appropriate safety restraints, escaped without injury before the aircraft was consumed by fire.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical state and the runway conditions. It was noted that the surface of Runway 24 consisted of short grass, though recent rainfall may have resulted in some soft patches. While the runway features an initial downhill slope, the latter portion is slightly uphill.
Regarding the engine, the operator reported that an instructor flying the aircraft one day prior to the accident had noted a vibration between 2,100 and 2,300 RPM. This was traced to a magneto that was retarded by approximately 4°. Although this magneto was subsequently re-timed and a test flight showed normal performance, the pilot on the day of the accident noted only minor vibration at cruise power during his pre-flight checks.
Findings
- The aircraft failed to accelerate satisfactorily during both takeoff attempts.
- The takeoff performance calculations used by the operator did not account for the specific slope of the runway or the potential for soft surface conditions.
- The aircraft was destroyed by fire following the overrun into a ploughed field.