Accident Narrative
The accident occurred on 4 July 2009 at 0930 UTC during takeoff from Runway 23 at Sandtoft Aerodrome, Lincolnshire. The pilot described good weather conditions and a normal initial climb. At approximately 250 feet, the engine faltered but continued running. The pilot determined that the remaining runway was insufficient for a safe landing and that the adjacent field, containing high standing crops, presented a rollover risk. He therefore turned toward a short mown field to the right. While turning, the pilot believed he had cleared a tree in the undershoot, but at that moment the engine lost all power. He lowered the nose to maintain flying speed; the aircraft subsequently struck the tree and became lodged in it. The pilot and his passenger unstrapped and climbed down from the tree, uninjured.
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft was a De Havilland DH82A Tiger Moth, registration G-AXAN, manufactured in 1943. It was powered by one De Havilland Gipsy Major 1F piston engine. The flight was private, carrying only the commander and one passenger. The commander, aged 50, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 1,837 total flying hours, of which 80 were on type. His recent flying experience included 7 hours in the last 90 days and 4 hours in the last 28 days.
Damage and Investigation
The aircraft sustained damage to all wings, the left main landing gear, and the right engine bearer. There was no fire. At the time of the report, neither the pilot nor his maintenance organisation had determined the cause of the engine problem.