Accident Overview
On 5 July 2012, a Cessna F172M Skyhawk (registration G-BCOL) sustained extensive damage during a takeoff accident at Netherthorpe Airfield, South Yorkshire. The private flight, which carried one pilot and one passenger, resulted in no injuries to either occupant.
Flight Details
The aircraft, manufactured in 1974 and powered by a single Lycoming O-320-E2D piston engine, was being operated under a Private Pilot's Licence. The 61-year-old commander had logged 101 total flying hours, including 35 hours on type, with only 4 hours in the preceding 90 days and 1 hour in the last 28 days.
Pre-Takeoff Conditions
The pilot reported fine, calm weather with a temperature of 20°C. Runway 24 was in use, a grass strip 553 m long with a takeoff run available of 490 m. The runway had an upward slope with an overall gradient of 1.9%, and the grass was damp. The aircraft had recently undergone routine annual maintenance. A thorough pre-flight check, including fuel tests, showed the tanks approximately three-quarters full. Pre-takeoff power checks were satisfactory, and the pilot prepared for a short field takeoff using 10° flaps.
Takeoff and Accident Sequence
During takeoff, the pilot felt the aircraft was not accelerating as expected but attributed this to the grass surface. He attempted to rotate the aircraft, but it did not become airborne. The aircraft continued beyond the runway, passed through a hedge, turned over, and came to rest inverted. After securing the aircraft, the pilot followed his passenger out through the right entry door.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot believed the failure to gain sufficient speed resulted from a combination of the damp grass, the uphill runway slope, and the possibility of a light tailwind component.