What happened
On 2 June 2004, a Morane Saulnier MS 892A-150, registration G-BTIU, was conducting a planned navigation flight from Spilsted Airstrip near Hastings. The weather conditions were favorable, with a dry grass runway and light winds. After refueling the aircraft to a total of 105 litres, the pilot taxied to a run-up area to perform standard engine checks.
To facilitate takeoff, the pilot employed a short-field technique, which involved applying full power while holding the aircraft stationary using the brakes. Once the engine reached 2,500 RPM, the pilot released the toe brakes. Immediately upon release, the aircraft began to yaw significantly to the left. Despite the pilot applying right brake pressure, the aircraft continued to deviate from the centerline, reaching an angle of approximately 40 to 45 degrees.
As the aircraft drifted toward the edge of the runway, the pilot attempted to close the throttle to prevent an excursion. However, the left wing struck a tree within a nearby hedge, causing the aircraft to swing violently to the left. There were no fatalities or injuries to the pilot or the two passengers on board, but the aircraft sustained severe damage to the fuselage and the left wing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the braking system and the directional control of the aircraft during the takeoff roll. The G-BTIU utilizes differential wheel brakes operated via toe brakes, with individual levers on the rudder pedals used to maintain parking brake pressure.
Investigators examined the brake system and found no evidence of mechanical defects. The pilot confirmed that the nosewheel was straight prior to the release of the brakes and noted that the left brake lever was in the off position. Furthermore, an inspection of the runway surface did not reveal any depressions in the grass that could have caused the left wheel to deviate.