Air Accidents Investigation Branch
The aircraft, a DA 40 NG (G-CTSB), stalled and struck the ground shortly after takeoff from a height of about 100-200 ft. The pilot survived but sustained serious injuries.
The aircraft had been loaded with five containers of de-icing fluid, contrary to the approved training organisations prohibition on the carriage of cargo and dangerous goods. One container, loaded in the front right footwell close to the flying controls, limited the forward movement of the control stick. The aircraft was near its maximum permitted takeoff weight and aft centre of gravity limit when it departed. This, together with the limited control authority available, caused the accident.
The investigation also found that aspects of the management of the Approved Training Organisation may have contributed to the accident. The de-icing fluid was probably incorrectly classified by the manufacturer as a non-dangerous good, with incorrect safety information supplied.
One Safety Recommendation is made regarding the use of recording facilities on digital flight instrument systems.
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