Piper PA-15 Vagabond, G-BOVB, 16 October 2004

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 16 October 2004
• Aircraft type: Piper PA-15 Vagabond
• Location: Near South Molton, Devon
• Registration: G-BOVB

Piper PA-15 Vagabond, G-BOVB

Summary:

During take-off from a farm field with a light crosswind, the aircraft failed to climb as normal and hit a hedge. The aircraft pitched forward and ended up inverted in the next field. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries but the aircraft suffered major damage and was written off. The field was of suitable dimensions and the aircraft mass was within limits. The engine appeared to be operating normally and take-off occurred at the correct speed with no control difficulties. Prior to take-off the aircraft had been stationary and taxiing on wet grass, and the combination of temperature and dew-point indicated that a “serious” risk of carburettor icing existed at all power settings.

Download report:

G-BOVB.pdf (18.83 kb)

Published 10 December 2014