What happened
On 12 November 2003, a Robin HR200/120B, registration G-WAVA, was conducting a solo circuit consolidation flight at Wellesbourne Mountford Aerodrome in Warwickshire. The flight was being conducted by a student pilot following a successful dual check flight.
After completing the second circuit, the pilot performed a standard touchdown. However, as power was increased to execute a touch-and-go maneuver, the aircraft experienced a leftward yaw. In an attempt to correct the movement, the pilot reduced the throttle, but the aircraft drifted off the asphalt runway. As the aircraft transitioned onto the grass area, the turn to the left intensified, causing the right wing tip to strike the ground. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The examination focused on the aircraft's behavior during the application of power and the pilot's control inputs during the transition from touchdown to the subsequent climb.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained a bent right wing tip as a result of the impact with the ground.
- The primary factor in the excursion was the insufficient application of right rudder to maintain directional control when take-off power was applied.