What happened
On 6 May 2003, a DH8ESS Tiger Moth, registration G-ANEH, was involved in a ground accident at Kemble Airfield, Gloucestershire. The aircraft, operated as a private flight, was being taxied by the pilot from the fuel bay toward the grass taxiway. The intention was to position the aircraft at stand 'G1' in preparation for a takeoff from grass Runway 26.
During the taxi maneuver, the aircraft crossed an area of long grass before reaching the maintained taxiway. While traversing this unmaintained section, the left wheel of the aircraft descended into a hole. This sudden impact caused the aircraft to pitch forward onto its nose. The incident resulted in damage to the propeller, engine cowlings, and engine shock loading, though no injuries were sustained by the pilot.
The investigation
Investigators examined the condition of the airfield surface and the route taken by the pilot. The investigation established that the hole was not clearly visible because it was unmarked and partially obscured by original turf that had been used to patch the area. The pilot had selected this specific path across the long grass because it was the same route previously used to reach the fuel pump.
Further inquiries with the airport operator revealed that the area in question had undergone a minor repair several months prior. The operator noted that the newly laid turf had likely become displaced or lifted due to a recent period of dry weather, creating the hazard.