Aircraft and Flight Details
A de Havilland DH82A Tiger Moth, registration G-ANMY (year of manufacture 1942), powered by one De Havilland Gipsy Major I piston engine, was conducting a private flight on 5 June 2008 at 0935 hrs UTC. The commander, aged 66, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence with 15,748 hours total flying experience, including 29 hours on type. One passenger was on board.
Pre-Flight Inspection and Departure
Aware of heavy rainfall two days earlier, the pilot inspected the full length of the main east-west grass runway. He found the central portion well drained and firm, although patches of water existed at the western end and periphery. When the aircraft was ready for departure, the wind had changed, favouring a takeoff to the south from an adjacent grass takeoff area. The pilot reported that the ground on this alternative area appeared firm underfoot and that looking ahead, he saw no surface problems.
Takeoff and Accident
The takeoff run initially proceeded normally. At approximately 35 kt, the aircraft crested a small rise and encountered a previously unseen area of standing water. The water and associated soft ground caused a marked deceleration. The aircraft pitched forward and came to rest inverted. There was no fire.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and passenger were uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine cowling, tailplane, and upper wings.
Pilot's Comments
In a subsequent report, the pilot acknowledged that the accident could have been avoided if he had walked the entire length of the takeoff area instead of relying on a visual assessment. He also considered that the aircraft might not have inverted if he had closed the throttle immediately upon sensing the deceleration.