What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Biggin Hill Airport, the aircraft was unable to achieve the necessary altitude. As the plane struggled to gain height, it made contact with the tops of trees situated just beyond the runway threshold.
Despite the impact, the crew managed to maintain control of the aircraft and complete a downwind circuit. This maneuver allowed them to return to the airfield to perform an emergency landing. While there were no injuries reported among those on board, the impact resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss due to damage sustained during the event.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the inability of the aircraft to gain sufficient altitude immediately after takeoff.