IS-28M2A crash near Woodford Aerodrome results in two fatalities
On July 29, 1989, a Brasov IS-28M2A motor glider crashed near Woodford Aerodrome, Cheshire, resulting in the fatalities of both occupants. The aircraft exhibited an unusually long ground roll and low climb rate before entering a steep left turn and spinning to the ground. Witnesses reported hearing low engine power before impact. The investigation found no mechanical defects in the aircraft or engine that could have contributed to the accident. Both the pilot and passenger sustained fatal injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed upon impact.
- Self-launch takeoff: The motor glider commenced a self-launch from Runway 25 for a local circuit detail in good weather with light westerly wind.
- Abnormally poor climb: During the takeoff roll and initial climb the aircraft had a longer than usual ground run, climbed in an abnormally nose-high attitude, and showed a low rate of climb for no identified mechanical reason.
- Low recent type experience: The pilot had only 9 hours on type, with 8 of those more than two years earlier and very limited recent experience on the motor glider.
- Early gear retraction: Contrary to normal practice of leaving the landing gear down to about 400 feet, the pilot retracted the gear at a much lower height, causing a slight descent before a slow climb was resumed.
- Low-altitude turning stall: At an estimated 150–500 feet and about 200 metres beyond the airfield boundary, the aircraft began a further left turn, the bank angle increased sharply, and it entered a rapid left spin with witnesses reporting low or surging engine power.
- Crash - fatal: The aircraft impacted a golf course in an approximately 80° nose-down attitude while spinning to the left, was destroyed, and both occupants sustained fatal injuries.