Fatal Piper Crash Blamed on Low Speed and Steep Nose-Up Takeoff
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has pinpointed a steep nose-up attitude and dangerously low takeoff speed as key factors in a deadly crash at Croft Farm Airstrip near Worcester on 27 August 2024.
Vintage Plane Fails to Climb, Smashes Into Tree
The vintage Piper PA-18-150, fitted with Alaskan Bush modifications, struggled on takeoff. Moments after lifting off, the aircraft banked sharply left and clipped a tree just south of the runway before plummeting nose-first into the ground.
Tragically, the pilot died instantly. No one else was onboard.
AAIB Reveals Critical Flight Failures
- The plane tracked left during and immediately after takeoff.
- Witnesses saw the aircraft with a steep nose-up angle but it failed to clear obstacles, hitting a tree at the highest point of its flight.
- The plane then dived sharply toward the ground.
- Takeoff speed was just 34 knots—too slow for proper control or climb.
- The aircraft was turning rather than climbing level, sapping lift and climb power.
No Mechanical Problems Found
Investigators confirmed no mechanical faults contributed to the crash. The plane’s recent repairs and upgrades were all found to be functioning normally.
The AAIB concluded the deadly combo of low airspeed and an early turn caused the aircraft to lose climb ability and crash into nearby obstacles.
Background on the Aircraft and Airstrip
The Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub is a popular light, single-engine plane known for short-field performance. G-CUBX operated from Croft Farm Airstrip (Defford Airfield), a private grass runway in Worcestershire.
The pilot was experienced and familiar with the aircraft, which had completed previous takeoffs safely.
Full Report Published
The AAIB’s full investigation was released on 29 May 2025 and is available on their website.
