What happened
On 8 June 2005, a Jabiru UL-45 and registration G-LEEE was performing a private flight from a grass airstrip in Burton-on-Wirral, Cheshire. During the takeoff roll on Runway 27, the pilot noted that while the engine power appeared normal, the aircraft lifted off at approximately 50 kt further down the runway than is typical for this operation. Following liftoff, the pilot observed that the aircraft's acceleration and climb rate felt abnormal.
Due to the proximity of trees at the upwind end of the runway, the pilot elected to abort the climb and land immediately. During the attempt to land, the pilot misjudged the flare and failed to account for a leftward drift. The aircraft subsequently landed on its left main landing gear in long grass adjacent to the runway. This caused the left gear to collapse and the nose leg to detach as the aircraft ground looped. The propeller struck the ground, resulting in damage to the engine, cowling, fuselage, and left wing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the physical characteristics of the airstrip and the aircraft's performance. The runway was 550 m long and 5 m wide, with grass approximately three inches long on the runway and nine inches long in the adjacent area. Investigators noted that for runways shorter than 800 m, standard guidance suggests a minimum width of 18 m to minimize hazards. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience and the environmental conditions, which included a light wind of 6 kt and good visibility.
Findings
- The pilot experienced an unusual takeoff performance, noting a delayed liftoff and a perceived lack of climb rate.
- The pilot's decision to land immediately was prompted by concerns regarding the aircraft's climb and the nearby obstacles.
- The accident was caused by the pilot's misjudgement of the flare and a lack of awareness regarding the aircraft's drift to the left during the landing attempt.
- The aircraft sustained significant damage to the landing gear, propeller, engine, and airframe.