Accident Overview
On 19 February 2010 at 1442 UTC, a Piper PA-28R-180 Cherokee Arrow (registration G-CSWH) sustained damage to its undercarriage and detached its right wing after a failed takeoff at Abbots Bromley, Staffordshire. The aircraft was conducting a training flight with one pilot and one passenger. Neither occupant was injured.
Flight Details
The aircraft departed from Runway 22, a 680 m grass strip that slopes upward on either side of the centerline. The runway surface was firm and covered with 1–2 cm of snow from a recent shower, though the aircraft itself was free of snow. The pilot reported that initial acceleration appeared normal, and the aircraft lifted off approximately halfway along the runway.
Events During Takeoff
Immediately after lift-off, the aircraft drifted left, which the pilot corrected. It then touched down twice on the now upsloping runway before failing to climb. The aircraft passed through two hedges and came to rest in a field, with its right wing separated from the fuselage. Both occupants vacated through the main door.
Pilot Observations
The pilot noted that the airfield's black windsock was difficult to see. After the accident, the wind direction appeared to have changed, possibly due to the recent shower. He also considered that the additional drag from snow on the runway may have reduced the aircraft's acceleration. The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff was partly influenced by the fact that the aircraft had no brake pedals fitted to the right-hand seat position, from which he was flying.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, a 1968 Piper PA-28R-180, was powered by a single Lycoming IO-360-B1E piston engine. The commander, aged 45, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence with 10,500 hours total flying experience, including 22 hours on type. In the previous 90 days he had flown 81 hours, with 40 hours in the last 28 days.