What happened
On 14 March 2003, a Socata Morane Saulnier MS.892E-150, registration G-BVAN, was performing a private local flight from Lands End (St Just) Airport. The flight was intended to be a short trip accompanied by one passenger. While the weather conditions were generally fine, the airfield was experiencing significant winds, with a surface wind reported at 110°/26 kt.
As the aircraft taxied onto the centerline of the grass Runway 12 and began its takeoff roll, the aircraft's left wing lifted. This movement caused the right wingtip to make contact with the ground and the nose of the aircraft to dip forward, resulting in the propeller striking the surface. The pilot immediately shut down the engine. Both the pilot and the passenger were able to exit the aircraft through the standard exit and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and the mechanical state of the aircraft following the incident. Air traffic control records indicated that a wind gust of 36 kt had occurred approximately at the time of the accident.
Upon inspecting the aircraft, the pilot noted that the nosewheel, which operates via castor action, was found in a position fully swiveled to the right. The investigation also assessed the damage sustained, which included the propeller and potential damage to the engine.