Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft involved was a Jabiru UL, registration G-UJAB, manufactured in 1999. It was powered by a single Jabiru Aircraft Pty 2200A piston engine. The flight was a private operation with one pilot on board and no passengers. The pilot held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 650 hours of flying experience, including 370 hours on type. The flight took place on 18 September 2008 at 1040 hrs UTC at Newnham airstrip, near Ashwell, Baldock, Hertfordshire.
History of the Flight
The pilot commenced takeoff from the grass airstrip in an easterly direction. The wind was reported as "less than 8 km/hr from 120°". After applying full power and traveling approximately 30 yards, a swing to the right developed. The pilot initially corrected with nosewheel steering. Shortly afterward, the aircraft again swung to the right, and this time the pilot was unable to counter it. The aircraft left the runway, running into a small ditch at the side. It ground-looped, turning through nearly 180°, and the left main landing gear collapsed.
Damage and Outcome
The left main landing gear collapsed; the nose leg housing was damaged; the underside of the fuselage and elevator horn were scuffed. The pilot shut down the aircraft, closed the fuel valve, and vacated normally. No injuries were reported. The pilot stated he was at a loss to explain the swing to the right, noting that inspection did not show any ruts or holes in the runway. He suspects he may have had the right mainwheel in some long grass at the side of the runway, which increased drag on that side as speed built up.