A final report from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has concluded that a steep nose-up attitude and low takeoff speed contributed to a fatal crash involving a Piper PA-18-150 (G-CUBX) at Croft Farm Airstrip near Worcester on 27 August 2024.
The vintage-style aircraft, which had undergone modifications consistent with an Alaskan Bush fit, failed to climb adequately during takeoff. Within seconds of becoming airborne, it entered a left turn and collided with a tree south of the runway before crashing nose-first into the ground.
The pilot was fatally injured in the impact. No one else was on board.
Key Findings from the AAIB Report
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The aircraft tracked left on the runway and continued the leftward path immediately after takeoff.
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Witnesses reported the plane in a steep nose-up position, but it failed to clear obstacles, including a tree struck at the highest point of its flight path.
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The aircraft then descended steeply into terrain.
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The takeoff speed was estimated at just 34 knots, potentially resulting in insufficient aerodynamic control to correct course or maintain climb rate.
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The aircraft was in a turn rather than a wings-level climb, reducing its climb performance.
No Mechanical Faults Found
Investigators confirmed there was no evidence of pre-accident mechanical faults, nor any indication of control surface anomalies. The aircraft had been recently repaired and modified, but all systems examined were consistent with normal function at the time of the accident.
The AAIB concluded that the combination of low airspeed and early turning likely caused the aircraft to lose climb performance, making it unable to avoid obstacles near the airfield.
Aircraft and Airfield Background
G-CUBX was a Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, a light single-engine aircraft popular in short-field operations. The aircraft was operating out of Croft Farm Airstrip (Defford Airfield), a privately used grass runway near Defford, Worcestershire.
The pilot was reportedly experienced and familiar with the aircraft, which had been seen performing previous takeoffs without incident.
Report Published
The full AAIB investigation report was published on 29 May 2025 and is available via the Air Accidents Investigation Branch website.
