Aircraft Information
The aircraft involved was an Extra EA 300/L, registration G-ZXCL, manufactured in 2006 (serial number 1223). It was powered by a single Lycoming AEIO-540-L1B5 piston engine.
Flight Details
The flight was a training sortie for singleton aerobatics. The pilot, the sole occupant, held a Commercial Pilot’s Licence and was 48 years old. His total flying experience was 6,219 hours, including 13 hours on type; the last 90 days recorded 13 hours, and the last 28 days also 13 hours.
Accident Sequence
The takeoff began uneventfully. However, at a height of approximately 50 ft and a speed of 80 kt, the cockpit canopy suddenly opened. The canopy was a large transparency incorporating the windscreen, hinged on the right side. It broke upon contact with the right wing, leaving the frame attached but fully open. The pilot immediately aborted the takeoff, reduced power, and landed back on the runway. He then shut down the aircraft and vacated it.
Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the canopy and the underside of the right tailplane.
Pilot Report
In his report submitted to the AAIB, the pilot stated that although he believed he had performed his pre-flight checks thoroughly, he concluded that he must have omitted to lock the canopy properly. No other causal factors were identified in the report.