What happened
On November 8, 2003, at 16:40, a Piper PA 18 A 150 (registration F-BFES) was performing a takeoff attempt at the unpaved runway 19 of AD Ruoms. The pilot had previously completed a local flight and two airfield circuits. During the takeoff roll, while maintaining a controlled speed and applying maximum power, the pilot simultaneously pushed the control stick forward. This maneuver caused the propeller to strike the ground.
Following the impact, the pilot initially perceived the shock as an engine malfunction and responded by reducing power while attempting to keep the aircraft aligned with the runway centerline. During this aborted takeoff, the pilot held the stick in a neutral position. The aircraft subsequently entered a slow pylon turn and eventually landed on its back. The pilot reported that during the interruption of the takeoff, there was a delay in pulling the stick back due to a fear of the aircraft bouncing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's control inputs during the critical phase of the takeoff roll. The examination of the aircraft's condition following the event revealed damage to the propeller, the engine mount, and the rudder, as well as deformation of the airframe.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the inappropriate application of elevator control during the takeoff roll.
- The pilot's decision to push the stick forward while applying full power led to the propeller strike.
- A secondary factor was the pilot's delayed recovery of the elevator position, driven by a fear of a ground bounce, which contributed to the aircraft's subsequent inversion.