What happened
On 26 July 2012, a Staaken Z-21A Flitzer, registration G-ERTI, was performing a takeoff from a private grass airstrip located near Newnham, Baldock. The strip, measuring 750 m in length and 15 m in width, was oriented east-west. The weather conditions were hot and humid, with light and variable winds primarily from the east, though thermal activity was present.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot raised the tail of the aircraft to improve forward visibility. At this stage, the pilot noticed the aircraft drifting toward the left side of the runway. Although the pilot considered aborting the takeoff, the aircraft's brakes were only designed for taxiing and were nearly ineffective at stopping the momentum of the departing plane. Consequently, the pilot continued the takeoff attempt.
As the aircraft became airborne, the drift toward the left of the track increased. The left mainwheel eventually made contact with an adjacent earth bank. This impact caused the aircraft to tumble and come to rest in an inverted position. The pilot, who was secured by a six-point harness, escaped the wreckage without any injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances of the departure and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation focused on the aircraft's path relative to the airstrip and the impact with the earth bank. The physical damage to the aircraft included the propeller, landing gear, wings, and fin.