What happened
On 24 November 2013, a Quik GTR, registration G-CHFU, was performing a private flight from a farm strip at Broadmeadow Farm, Hereford. During the takeoff roll on Runway 28, the aircraft reached a distance of approximately 50 metres from the start of the runway and was nearing its takeoff speed. At this moment, the aircraft experienced a sudden deviation to the right.
The pilot attempted to maintain the centerline by applying corrective inputs and forward pressure on the control bar in an effort to lift the aircraft. Instead, the rightward turn intensified, causing the aircraft to depart the runway surface. The aircraft subsequently slid into an adjacent field on its right side. The engine was shut down immediately, and the pilot exited the aircraft. There were no injuries reported following the incident.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and the physical state of the runway at the time of the accident. Weather observations indicated a north-north-east wind of 3 to 4 knots, with gusts reaching up to 16 knots. The investigation also looked into the surface conditions of the takeoff area and the pilot's actions during the loss of control.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to its propeller, wing structure, and wing fabric.
- The loss of directional control was likely caused by a sudden wind gust acting in combination with the soft and damp grass surface of the runway.