AAIB investigation to Pioneer 300, G-CEAR
Smoke in cockpit and emergency landing, Near New Alresford, Hampshire, 29 September 2018.
Summary:
During the takeoff roll from Sandown Airfield, the aircraft hit a ridge in the runway causing it to become airborne before it had reached flying speed. Unable to sustain flight, it descended onto the runway before hitting a second ridge, causing it to become airborne again. It contacted the runway a second time with a “very heavy bump” and bounced. After a third bounce it then climbed away and routed towards its home airfield.
After 15 minutes of flight, approximately overhead New Arlesford, Hampshire, the cockpit filled with smoke. The pilot made a PAN call and was guided to land at Popham Airfield. He landed there successfully with fire crew in attendance and the aircraft was shut down.
Subsequent inspection of the engine compartment identified that the exhaust tailpipe had dislodged, allowing exhaust gases to impinge onto the engine cowling and firewall, causing significant damage. The heating of the fibreglass engine cowling had generated smoke which was then entrained into the cockpit ventilation system. Inspection of the airframe found cracks on the leading edge of the wing skin and deformed landing gear brackets.
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