What happened
On 11 May 2003, a Piper PA-18-150 (Modified) Super Cub, registration G-BJCI, was engaged in glider towing operations at Milfield Airfield, near Wooler. Following a standard landing, the pilot taxied the aircraft downwind toward the glider launch area. During this period, the aircraft was operating in significant wind conditions, with sustained speeds of 15-20 kt and gusts reaching 30 kt.
As the pilot slowed the aircraft to a halt before initiating a turn to line up for the next glider, the tail of the aircraft lifted from the ground. The aircraft then slewed through a 90-degree angle. The pilot attempted to correct the movement by pulling the control column rearwards, but this action failed to prevent the tail from continuing to rise. Before the engine could be shut down, the propeller made contact with the ground.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the aircraft's configuration and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. The aircraft, a 1958 model, was equipped with a single Lycoming O-360-C2A piston engine.
Investigators noted that the pilot had employed a specific taxiing technique to manage the strong winds, which involved selecting full flaps and maintaining a neutral elevator position. The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the loss of tail contact and the subsequent impact of the propeller with the airfield surface.