Incident Narrative
On 9 August 2005, at approximately 1230 UTC, a de Havilland DH82A Tiger Moth (registration G-AMTV) was conducting a private takeoff from grass Runway 04 at Oaksey Park, Wiltshire. The runway was 30 meters wide. The surface wind was estimated at 320 degrees at 5 knots, and the temperature was 23 degrees Celsius.
Earlier in the day, the aircraft had been flown three times and was refueled before the pilot briefed the passenger for the next flight. After a normal engine start, taxi, and power checks, the pilot initiated the takeoff roll. Full power was selected, and the control column was moved fully forward with sufficient left aileron to counteract the crosswind.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot became concerned because the tail was not rising at its usual rate. At approximately 40 knots indicated airspeed, with the tail still not properly elevated, the left wing lifted. Although the pilot was able to correct this with full left aileron, the aircraft began to drift to the right toward a standing crop of maize growing alongside the runway.
The aircraft became airborne at 50 knots IAS, with the pilot intending to gain further airspeed in level flight before climbing away. However, the drift to the right continued, and the right main wheel contacted the crop, causing a yaw to the right, a decrease in airspeed, and a subsequent descent into the crop. As the aircraft contacted the crop, it pitched onto its back.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a DH82A Tiger Moth, year of manufacture 1935, powered by one De Havilland Gipsy Major I piston engine. The pilot, aged 53, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had a total flying experience of 497 hours, of which 28 hours were on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 11 hours, and in the last 28 days, 5 hours.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to both wings, the rudder, and the propeller, and was assessed as beyond economic repair. Both occupants were wearing four-point harnesses. The pilot suffered minor cuts and bruises; the passenger reported no injuries. Both were able to vacate the cockpit unaided.