Investigation number
199301004
Occurrence date
State
Victoria
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Collision with terrain
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Minor

The pilot was taking off from the 020 degree grass strip but was using only the last 700 feet of the available 2200 feet. Partial engine failure occurred when the takeoff roll was well established. The engine surged. The pilot applied carburettor heat, full rich fuel mixture and full throttle without regaining full power. The pilot continued the takeoff and became airborne. He advised that he had to turn to avoid trees. The aircraft stalled from somewhere between 50 and 100 feet. The wings were damaged. The engine was pushed back into the firewall and the undercarriage collapsed. The owner subsequently advised that no fault has been found with the airframe, engine or fuel system. He believes that the likely cause of the loss of engine power was carburettor icing. Significant Factors The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident: 1. The engine suffered a partial engine failure probably because of carburettor icing. 2. The pilot did not reject the takeoff.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Amateur Built Aircraft
Model
SOPWITH PUP
Registration
VH-SOR
Sector
Piston
Departure point
Riddell VIC
Destination
Mangalore VIC
Damage
Substantial