Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Summary:
During start up, the engine suddenly went to a high rpm. The aircraft accelerated over the ground and became airborne with the base bar attached to the front strut. It struck the ground in a field adjacent to the airfield and the pilot died from head injuries eight days later.
It is likely that the pilot started the engine with the hand throttle open and did not free the base bar, reduce the rpm or stop the engine before the aircraft became airborne. The pilot might have survived if he had been wearing his shoulder (diagonal) harness and his helmet had been designed to protect him from rotational head injuries.
Four Safety Recommendations are made in this report. Two to the CAA to mandate the embodiment of a starter inhibitor switch on the hand throttle, and to review the exception for a shoulder strap not to be worn. Two to the British Standards Institute regarding the design of helmets used for airborne sports. Safety Actions were also taken by the BMAA, Microlight Panel of Examiners and the pilots flying club.