Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft, a Piper PA-22-160 registered G-APYN, was manufactured in 1959 and powered by a single Lycoming O-320-B2B piston engine. On 13 February 2000 at 1145 UTC, the pilot, a 45-year-old male holding a Private Pilot's Licence, intended to conduct a local flight from Lizards Farm Strip, Co Durham. The pilot had 196 hours total flying experience, including 124 hours on the type, with 9 hours in the last 90 days and 5 hours in the last 28 days.
Pre-flight and Takeoff Attempt
Before the flight, the pilot inspected the runway surface and ensured all relevant NO ENTRY signs were in place. Runway 33, with a dry grass surface, was in use. The surface wind was 300°/12 knots and the weather was CAVOK. During the initial takeoff roll, the pilot observed a car maneuvering on land adjacent to the runway. Believing the car was about to enter the runway area, he decided to abort the takeoff.
Accident Sequence
During the subsequent braking, the propeller struck the ground. The aircraft yawed to the right, and the wing sustained further damage. The pilot, who was uninjured, vacated the aircraft unaided.
Damage
The nature of damage included damage to the propeller and wing. No other damage was reported.