Accident Details
On 14 November 2005 at 1615 UTC, a Pierre Robin DR400/140B Major (registration G-BFJZ) was involved in an accident during a training flight at Headcorn Aerodrome, Kent. The aircraft was powered by a single Lycoming O-320-D2A piston engine and was manufactured in 1978. The flight was a solo training session with a student pilot on board; no passengers were carried. The pilot, aged 46 with 12 hours of flying experience (all on type), was uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage to its left wing.
Sequence of Events
Earlier that day, the student pilot had flown with an instructor, completing several circuits and practicing emergency procedures. The student then flew several solo touch-and-go circuits without incident. In the afternoon, the instructor and student completed more circuit training and upper air work. The student then took off to perform three more solo touch-and-go landings. Weather conditions were good with a light surface wind blowing down the runway.
The first circuit and touch-and-go landing were normal. After ensuring the aircraft was straight and on the runway centerline, the student applied full power to commence a rolling takeoff. As the aircraft accelerated, the student increased pressure on the right rudder pedal to maintain direction, but applied too much pressure, causing the aircraft to steer right. The student counteracted with left rudder but overcompensated, sending the aircraft left. The aircraft crossed the left edge of the runway, and its left wheel struck a runway marker. The student closed the throttle and applied brakes. Despite reapplying right rudder, the aircraft continued left and its left wing struck a timber fence running parallel and close to the runway. The impact spun the aircraft 180 degrees, bringing it to a halt. The student shut down the engine, switched off the magnetos, and informed air traffic control before vacating the aircraft uninjured.
Cause
The student pilot attributed the cause of the accident to his over-use of the rudder pedals.