What happened
On 17 March 2007, a Piper L18C Super Cub, registration G-BBYB, was performing aerial work at Headcorn Airfield in Kent. The pilot was conducting his first solo flight on this specific aircraft type following a period of supervised circuit consolidation. After completing pre-takeoff checks and receiving clearance, the pilot lined up on Runway 29 and began the takeoff roll.
The takeoff run proceeded straight until the tail was lifted. At a height of approximately two to three feet, the aircraft encountered a small undulation on the runway surface, causing it to lift off prematurely. Following this, the aircraft veered and drifted toward the right. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation using the rudder, but was unable to maintain directional control. The aircraft subsequently touched down again while heading toward the airfield fence line. In an attempt to stop the aircraft, the pilot closed the throttle and applied the brakes, but the aircraft nosed over and ended up in an inverted position. The pilot successfully exited the aircraft after shutting off the fuel.
The investigation
Investigators examined the airfield's wind recording equipment and observed that the wind had been steady at 8-10 knots during the preceding consolidation flights. However, at the time of the accident, the equipment recorded several gusts. These gusts were characterized by a backing trend toward the south-west, a pattern also confirmed by the position of the windsock.
Findings
- The pilot was performing his first solo flight on the Piper L18C Super Cub.
- The aircraft encountered a small undulation on the runway shortly after the tail was lifted.
- Gusting crosswinds likely contributed to the loss of directional control.
- The pilot's attempt to correct the drift with rudder was unsuccessful, leading to the subsequent touchdown and nose-over.