What happened
On 31 May 2005, a Piper PA-38-112 Tomahawk, registration G-BMXL, was conducting an aerial inspection of a newly prepared farm strip near Chepstow, Monmouthshire. The pilot and passenger had previously landed at the strip following a flight from Wycombe Air Park. During the second approach, the pilot experienced engine roughness and, as a precaution, decided to abort the landing and attempt a go-around.
As the pilot applied full power for the go-around, the engine began running roughly again, and a loss of power was sensed. The pilot attempted a second takeoff roll from the strip. During this attempt, the aircraft became airborne but exhibited an erratic flight path. Witnesses observed the aircraft rolling to the left and veering across the centerline. The aircraft eventually struck a boundary fence and collided with a calf in an adjacent field, where it came to rest.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the aircraft and the site, noting that the strip was composed of undulating ground with a significant downward slope during the initial takeoff phase, followed by an upward slope. The investigation found that the aircraft had suffered substantial damage, including a buckled center spar, a damaged tailplane, and a detached left main undercarriage. The left wing tip had also been damaged.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience and the aircraft's maintenance history. While there had been verbal reports of intermittent engine roughness within the flying group, no formal defects had been recorded, and the maintenance organization had not been notified of these specific concerns. Furthermore, the investigation noted a discrepancy in the fuel levels, as the amount drained from the tanks was higher than the expected remaining volume.