What happened
On 24 June 2010, a Pegasus Quik, registration G-RITT, was conducting a dual instructional flight at Damyns Hall Airfield in Upminster, Essex. The flight was intended to provide training for a student pilot who had no prior experience with this specific aircraft model and its sensitive braking system.
As the aircraft accelerated during the takeoff roll, it reached a speed of approximately 30 mph. At this point, the student pilot applied the right foot brake firmly while simultaneously attempting steering inputs. This sudden braking action caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the right, leading to a rollover. The aircraft ended up resting on its left side, facing the opposite direction of the initial takeoff roll. The impact resulted in extensive damage to the airframe. Both the instructor and the student vacated the aircraft without any injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the actions of the student pilot and the briefing provided by the instructor prior to the flight. It was noted that the student had not previously flown an aircraft equipped with such responsive disc brakes. The instructor also reviewed the student's recent handling of the aircraft during taxiing, noting that the student had not demonstrated a tendency to use the brakes during previous ground maneuvers.