What happened
On 3 April 2010, a training flight involving an EV-97 TeamEurostar UK, registration G-CFVI, was attempting to depart from Runway 28 at Peterborough Airfield. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft began to veer toward the left side of the runway. The student pilot attempted to counteract this movement by applying right rudder; however, the correction proved unsuccessful.
As the aircraft continued its path, it departed the runway surface and struck a fence. The pilot managed to reduce engine power in an attempt to abort the takeoff, but the momentum of the aircraft caused it to impact the structure before coming to a halt. The aircraft sustained damage to the wings, the propeller, and the front section of the fuselage. The pilot, who was uninjured, was able to exit the aircraft without difficulty.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators reviewed the environmental conditions at the time of the incident, noting that the forecast wind was 190° at 8 kt. However, the pilot reported that the actual wind speed encountered during the takeoff roll was higher than predicted. The investigation also considered the pilot's experience level, noting that the commander was a student with 35 total flying hours, all of which were on this specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The aircraft departed the runway following an unsuccessful attempt to correct a leftward veer using right rudder.
- The pilot's incorrect use of controls during a crosswind was identified as the primary cause of the excursion.
- Actual wind conditions during the takeoff roll were higher than the forecasted 8 kt.