Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft involved was a Eurostar EV-97 microlight, registration G-CERE, serial number not specified, manufactured in 2007. It was powered by a single Rotax 912-UL piston engine. The pilot, aged 66, held a Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 284 flying hours, of which 34 were on type. His recent flying experience included 20 hours in the last 90 days and 11 hours in the last 28 days. The aircraft was operating under a private flight with one passenger on board.
Accident Details
On 8 September 2008 at 1600 hours UTC, the pilot completed pre-takeoff and power checks before lining up at the eastern threshold of a 461-metre-long grass strip located at Newton Peveril, west of Bournemouth. The grass was short and dry, the runway was relatively flat, and there was a light westerly wind. The pilot commenced the takeoff run into wind with full power and the first stage of flap selected.
The aircraft reportedly accelerated more slowly than usual. After a ground run of approximately 100 metres and at 10 to 15 mph below the normal takeoff speed, the pilot pulled back gently on the control stick. The aircraft rose approximately two metres into the air before descending again. It bounced once, during which the left wing struck the ground and was damaged.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the engine was tested and performed normally. The pilot could not account for the poor acceleration but thought it was possible that either he or his passenger might have inadvertently rested their feet on the brakes during the takeoff run.
Injuries and Damage
Neither the pilot nor the passenger sustained any injuries. The aircraft sustained damage to the left wing; no other damage was reported.