What happened
On 23 September 2001, a Piper PA-28-161, registration G-BXTY, was engaged in a solo training flight at Bournemouth International Airport. The pilot was performing a series of visual circuits under favorable meteorological conditions, with a surface wind of 20 knots and good visibility.
After completing two successful circuits, the pilot commenced a third approach. The landing was reported as normal, with the aircraft touching down on the runway centerline at the appropriate speed. Following the landing, the pilot set the carburettor heat to 'COLD', reset the flaps, and applied full power for the subsequent takeoff.
As the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 65 kt, the pilot initiated rotation. At the moment the nose wheel left the ground, the aircraft experienced a sharp leftward swing. Despite the application of full right rudder, the pilot was unable to correct the deviation. Consequently, the takeoff was aborted by reducing power. As the aircraft exited the runway at a 45-degree angle to the centerline, the nose gear collapsed and broke off. The aircraft came to a stop in a nose-down position, sustaining damage to the propeller, engine components, and nose gear.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot. An assessment of the aircraft was conducted by a maintenance organization, which examined the damage to the engine, propeller, and nose gear. The inspection confirmed that the physical damage was consistent with the sequence of events described. The investigation also included an examination of the brakes and main wheels, both of which were found to be in serviceable condition.