Pietenpol Aircamper Stalls During Take-off at Margate Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • Margate Aerodrome, ZA

A private flight involving a Pietenpol Aircamper ended in a crash at Margate Aerodrome after the aircraft failed to maintain a positive rate of climb.

What happened

On 16 February 2005, a Pietenpol Aircampter, registration ZU-BZI, was conducting a local pleasure flight departing from Margate Aerodrome. The flight was intended to be a short trip to Hibberdene and back to the departure point. After a successful pre-flight inspection and engine start, the aircraft became airborne at approximately 1011Z.

Immediately following lift-off, the aircraft was unable to gain altitude and began to lose height while still along the runway. As the aircraft reached the 04 threshold, it entered a stall and veered into a right-hand turn. The right wing struck the airport's perimeter fence, causing the aircraft to crash in a nose-down attitude. The impact was severe enough to break the wing and cause the propeller to strike the ground, destroying the aircraft. The pilot and passenger both sustained minor injuries.

The investigation

SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the environmental factors present during the accident. An inspection of the engine revealed that the spark plugs, magneto, and carburettor were in satisfactory operating condition, and the engine was functioning normally until the moment of impact.

Investigators also analyzed the aircraft's weight and balance. While the total take-off mass was within the manufacturer's limits, the centre of gravity was found to be outside the permitted range. Furthermore, meteorological data indicated high humidity and recent rainfall, conditions that can significantly impact engine performance through carburettor icing.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a negative rate of climb and a decay in airspeed during the attempt to maintain altitude.
  • The aircraft's centre of gravity was outside the manufacturer's specified limits.
  • High humidity and recent rain created conditions conducive to carburettor icing, which may have degraded engine performance.
  • The passenger was not wearing a safety harness at the time of the accident.
  • The aircraft was properly maintained and the pilot held a valid license and medical certificate.

Probable cause

The aircraft stalled due to an inability to maintain a positive rate of climb, with contributing factors including an improper centre of gravity and high humidity levels.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-02-16 Pietenpol Aircamper accident near Margate Aerodrome, ZA?

A private flight involving a Pietenpol Aircamper ended in a crash at Margate Aerodrome after the aircraft failed to maintain a positive rate of climb.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-02-16 involved a Pietenpol Aircamper, registration ZU-BZI, at Margate Aerodrome, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft stalled due to an inability to maintain a positive rate of climb, with contributing factors including an improper centre of gravity and high humidity levels.

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