What happened
On 9 September 2010, a DH60G Gipsy Moth, registration G-ATBL, was performing a private flight from the Black Acre Farm Strip near Holt, Wiltshire. The aircraft, which was operating at its maximum all-up weight, began its takeoff roll on the 480-metre grass runway. Shortly after the aircraft became airborne, the pilot encountered turbulence and a loss of altitude.
Believing the aircraft was not climbing adequately, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff. The throttle was closed, and the pilot attempted to land back on the runway. However, the aircraft could not be stopped within the remaining length of the strip. The aircraft subsequently rolled into a hedge at the southern end of the runway. Both the pilot and the passenger escaped the incident without none injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's performance and the conditions at the airfield. The runway used was a private grass strip that slopes downward toward the south. At the time of the incident, surface winds were reported from 240° to 250° at 10 knots, with gusts reaching 15 knots. The investigation noted that the aircraft sustained significant damage, including a cracked left lower spar, tears to the wing fabric, a dented propeller, and a bent engine cowling.