What happened
On 16 October 2011, a Piper PA-34-220T Seneca III, registration G-GFCD, was performing a private flight from a private airstrip located at Kimberley, near Norwich. Following the completion of engine power checks, the pilot initiated a takeoff roll on the south-eastbound runway, applying full power while holding the brakes. The runway consisted of relatively long grass that was damp due to overnight dew.
As the aircraft reached the midpoint of the approximately 755 m strip, it encountered a bump and became airborne. However, the aircraft failed to reach the necessary climb speed. Realising that the remaining runway distance was insufficient to achieve a safe climb, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff. The pilot determined there was enough distance remaining to bring the aircraft to a halt safely.
During the deceleration phase, the aircraft ran into a hedge at the end of the strip. The impact caused damage to the nose, fuselage, propeller, and the right wing. The forward door of the aircraft had become jammed by branches during the collision, but the pilot was able to exit via the rear door. There was no fire following the impact.
The investigation
An investigation was conducted by the AAIB based on the accident report submitted by the pilot and subsequent enquiries. The investigation examined the condition of the airfield, the aircraft's mechanical state, and the pilot's decision-making process.
Technical assessments revealed no apparent mechanical defects that would have hindered the aircraft's ability to produce normal power. The investigation also noted that the pilot's experience included 922 total flying hours, with 692 hours specifically on this aircraft type. The investigation focused on the interaction between the aircraft's performance and the runway conditions, specifically the damp, long grass.