What happened
On 26 June 1999, a Piper PA-38-112, registration G-BNXV, was performing a private flight departing from Teesside Airport. Following the completion of standard pre-takeoff power checks, which included testing the carburettor heat, the pilot began the takeoff roll on Runway 23.
As the aircraft reached an altitude of roughly 100 feet, the engine suffered an abrupt cessation of power. This was immediately followed by the activation of the stall warning. In an attempt to return to the runway, the pilot lowered the aircraft's nose to initiate a descent.
During this approach, the aircraft was struck by two wind gusts originating from the right side. These gusts caused the starboard wing to lift twice. Although the pilot managed to correct the resulting roll, the aircraft drifted to the left of the runway centerline. The aircraft subsequently made a heavy touchdown on the grass area adjacent to the runway, which led to the collapse of the nose landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The crew, consisting of the pilot and one passenger, sustained no injuries during the event. Following the landing, the pilot shut off the fuel and battery, and both occupants exited the aircraft via the standard exits. The airport fire service arrived promptly to apply foam to the area surrounding the aircraft.
Findings
- The engine stopped suddenly during the initial climb phase.
- Wind gusts from the right side caused intermittent lifting of the starboard wing.
- The aircraft drifted left of the runway during the emergency descent.
- The heavy impact with the ground caused the nose gear to fail.
- No specific reason for the engine failure was identified during the investigation.