What happened
On 24 December 2003, a Rans S6-ES Coyote II, registration G-CCNH, was performing its initial flight under the control of a pilot who had recently purchased the aircraft. The flight departed from a grass farm strip located at Felixkirk, North Yorkshire, during a private operation. At the time of departure, the surface wind was recorded at 260º/05 kt.
During the climb, at an altitude of less than 50 feet above the ground, the aircraft entered a left roll. The pilot attempted to counteract the movement by applying full opposite aileron, but the roll could not be arrested. Consequently, the aircraft struck the grass area adjacent to the strip, causing damage to the fuselage and both wings.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition following the impact. An inspection conducted by an engineer from the aircraft's manufacturer confirmed that the ailerons were in proper working order and functioning correctly. Records indicated that the aircraft had undergone five hours of test flights prior to the sale, during which no handling irregularities were noted. While the pilot noted the presence of a light westerly wind, which is known to create turbulence near agricultural buildings west of the runway, no such turbulence was reported during this specific takeoff.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the fuselage and both wings.
- There were no injuries to the pilot.
- The ailerons were found to be mechanically functional.
- The pilot was unable to correct the uncommanded left roll despite full control inputs.