Aircraft and Flight Details
A Piper PA-38-112 (G-BPJF), manufactured in 1978 and powered by a single Lycoming O-235-L2C piston engine, was engaged on a private flight from Derby Airfield to Woodford, Cheshire. The aircraft had arrived at Derby earlier that day. The pilot, aged 43 and holding a Private Pilot's Licence, had accumulated 120 flying hours, all on type, including 11 hours in the preceding 90 days and 1 hour in the last 28 days.
Weather and Runway Conditions
The weather at the time was generally good, with a light southerly wind, visibility of 8 km in light rain showers. The takeoff was conducted on Runway 17, a grass runway with a Take Off Run Available of 525 metres, followed by an additional 75 metres of grass before a hedgerow. The pilot had only previously performed two takeoffs from grass surfaces, and this was his first on wet grass.
Pre-Takeoff Events
Upon arrival at Derby, the pilot experienced difficulty locating the airfield and executed two go-arounds before landing. The landing was long, using the entire available runway to stop. Approximately half an hour later, the pilot prepared for departure, aiming to make a better impression.
Takeoff and Impact
During the early phase of the takeoff, the pilot became absorbed with directional control, which he found challenging due to the lack of a centreline reference. Distracted by this, he later noticed that acceleration was poor and felt insufficient runway remained to stop without causing damage. Observers reported expecting the takeoff to be aborted, and the Airport Fire and Rescue Service was already in motion before the impact. At a point some 30 metres before the boundary hedge, the pilot raised the aircraft's nose, but the main wheels remained in contact with the ground. The aircraft struck the hedge, resulting in both wings being torn back, and continued into the adjacent field, slewing through 180° before coming to rest on its port side.
Post-Impact and Occupants
Both occupants were wearing lap belts and diagonal shoulder straps and were not injured. They vacated the aircraft through the passenger door. A considerable amount of fuel spilled, but no fire occurred, and the Airport Fire Service rapidly arrived. The pilot reported switching off the magnetos before exiting; the carburettor heat control was found partially on, possibly moved during the pilot's escape.
Performance Considerations
Takeoff performance calculations, factoring ambient conditions and aircraft weight, indicated that 575 metres were required to reach a height of 50 feet. Any degradation in performance would have made a successful takeoff unlikely. The pilot had qualified for his Private Pilot's Licence a year earlier, with all training conducted on longer tarmac runways. He attributed his failure to abort the takeoff to a lack of experience and relevant training.