What happened
On 17 February 2001, a private flight involving an Oldfield Baby Great Lakes, registration G-BRKO, was departing from Belle Vue Airfield in North Devon. The flight was being conducted by a pilot with 762 total flying hours, though this was only the second flight performed on this specific aircraft type.
During the takeoff from the 625-metre grass runway 09, weather conditions were favorable with a light south-east wind. The pilot successfully lifted the tail during the initial roll and maintained the aircraft in ground effect until the midpoint of the runway before initiating a climb. However, at an altitude of approximately 10 to 12 feet, the pilot experienced a perceived loss of engine power. Due to the presence of obstacles ahead, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff and return to the runway surface.
Upon attempting to land, the aircraft made a heavy touchdown. The impact caused the aircraft to nose over, ultimately coming to rest in an inverted position. Despite the substantial damage to the aircraft, the pilot, who was wearing a flying helmet and full harness, managed to exit the cockpit and escaped without any injuries.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the aircraft accident report form submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of the takeoff roll, the pilot's decision-making regarding the obstacles on the runway, and the physical state of the aircraft following the heavy touchdown and subsequent inversion.