AAIB investigation to Grob G109, G-CLIA
Aircraft failed to climb away after extended takeoff run, Husbands Bosworth, Leicester, 28 May 2021
Summary:
The pilot seated in the left seat was nominated as pilot in command, and the co-owner, a qualified pilot, instructor and examiner was seated in the right seat and nominated as a passenger for the flight. During the takeoff, aircraft acceleration was sluggish, and the pilot called out his intention to stop. The passenger called out that he had control, and shortly afterwards the aircraft became airborne. It quickly became apparent that the aircraft was not climbing and, after reaching a maximum height of 100 ft agl, it began to descend. It was turned towards a field, but the right wing struck a tree as it descended, causing the aircraft to rotate through 180° and pitch down before striking the ground in a nose-down attitude. The canopy flew open and forward, and both occupants were able to leave the aircraft without assistance. Neither occupant was injured.
The takeoff had been attempted with the propeller in coarse pitch leading to a significant loss of performance.
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