What happened
On 25 March 2012, a Rans S6-116 Coyote II, registration G-BVCL, was being operated on a private flight from a farm strip near Alloa, Clackmannanshire. The pilot, accompanied by his son, had flown the aircraft from Fife Airfield to test the suitability of the 320 m strip for departures at maximum weight.
Following a practice approach and several successful landings in both directions, the pilot attempted a takeoff heading uphill. During the rotation phase, the aircraft proved reluctant to lift off. In an effort to gain sufficient airspeed, the pilot lowered the nose and subsequently attempted another takeoff using a slight downslope. However, the aircraft again failed to achieve flight. The pilot then aborted the takeoff, but the aircraft struck a hedge at a speed of approximately 20 kt. The impact caused damage to the nosewheel and the left wing struts. Both occupants were uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and the pilot's decision-making process. On the day of the incident, the weather was calm with an air temperature of 22°C and a QNH of 1032 HPa. The pilot noted that the strip was not entirely level, although he had previously prepared the surface by rolling it and cutting the grass short.
Investigators looked into the aircraft's performance and the pilot's maneuvers. The pilot acknowledged that his lack of experience contributed to the event. He noted that maintaining a nose-high attitude during the takeoff attempts had increased drag, and that the uneven surface may have further hindered performance. He also reflected that using markers on the strip could have provided a better way to assess takeoff capabilities.