Fatal collision involving aircraft OY-JRR at Headcorn Aerodrome

1 fatality • Headcorn, United Kingdom • Takeoff (climb)

A pilot was killed following a collision between a parachuting aircraft and a parked museum exhibit during a takeoff attempt at Headcorn Aerodrome.

What happened

On the day of the accident, a pilot was conducting a series of parachute jump flights, commonly referred to as lifts, using the aircraft OY-JRR. The day's operations involved multiple departures from the aerodrome, with the pilot frequently utilizing Runway 21 following a request to switch from the main runway due to changing wind conditions. To comply with aerodrome regulations regarding runway usage, a check pilot observed several of the flights to ensure the pilot was proficient with the shorter runway.

During the eleventh flight of the day, the aircraft taxied to Runway 21 and began its takeoff roll. While the initial acceleration appeared normal, the aircraft failed to rotate, with the tail not rising as it typically did during previous departures. As the aircraft continued down the runway, it passed several parked aircraft and the aerodrome refueling station. The pilot attempted to abort the takeoff, and passengers began bracing for impact. The aircraft ultimately collided with a parked, camouflaged F100 fighter aircraft that was being displayed as a museum exhibit near the edge of the runway. The impact caused the left wing and cockpit to strike the exhibit, resulting in a small fire near the engine.

While the passengers were able to evacuate the aircraft type OY-JRR and move to safety, the pilot was found unconscious in the cockpit. Despite receiving medical attention from paramedics, the pilot later died from his injuries. There were 1 fatality and no other reported injuries among the passengers.

Findings

  • The aircraft failed to lift its tail during the takeoff roll, preventing the aircraft from becoming airborne.
  • The collision occurred because the aircraft failed to rotate during the takeoff attempt on Runway 21.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to rotate during the takeoff roll, leading to a collision with a parked museum exhibit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-03-11 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Headcorn, United Kingdom?

A pilot was killed following a collision between a parachuting aircraft and a parked museum exhibit during a takeoff attempt at Headcorn Aerodrome.

Were there any fatalities in the 2007-03-11 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-03-11 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration OY-JRR, operated by Para-Flite, at Headcorn, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to rotate during the takeoff roll, leading to a collision with a parked museum exhibit.

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