AAIB investigation to Thruster T600N 450, G-SLAK
Inverted following rejected takeoff at Wing Farm, Wiltshire on 19 June 2014.
Summary
The pilot had operated from Wing Farm earlier in the day and intended to take off again with a passenger for a flight around the local area. He had used Runway 09 on his previous flights but, as he was carrying out his pre-takeoff checks, he saw that the wind direction had shifted to favour Runway 27 and he began his takeoff roll from the latter. The aircraft accelerated along the 500 m grass runway but, after about 10 seconds, the pilot became concerned that the nose of the aircraft did not feel as light as he was used to. He glanced down at the engine tachometer and this indicated normal rpm but he decided to abandon the takeoff. However, as he closed the throttle, he realised the aircraft was airborne and, fearing a bounce from his estimated height of about 10 ft, he opened it again. This did not prevent the aircraft from landing heavily and it pitched forwards and came to a halt inverted.
After exiting the aircraft the pilot realised that the wind had returned to an easterly direction. He believes that a lack of experience of this situation was the main cause of the accident.
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