AAIB investigation to Aero L-29 Delfin, G-BYCT Correction
Front canopy detached during takeoff, near Cranfield Airfield, 20 May 2014.
Summary:
The pilot reported that following a normal takeoff, and while climbing through a height of 500 ft, the front right side of the canopy lifted by approximately one inch. As he attempted to pull the canopy down it detached from the airframe. The aircraft was undamaged and landed normally.
The canopy is mounted on the airframe by two hinges fitted to the right side of the canopy and is secured to the airframe by four latches, two on each side. The pilot reported that it is difficult to check that the hooks are engaged in the latches, so after closing and locking the canopy he pushed upwards on the left side to check that it was secure. The pilot believes that the hinges might have been binding slightly which prevented the hooks on the right side from engaging in the latches.
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