What happened
On 8 May 2011, a Reims Aviation Cessna 172M, registration G-YORK, was performing circuit practice at Ballyboy Airfield in Co. Meath. During the flight, the pilot encountered challenging weather conditions, including a crosswind and turbulence, which necessitated two aborted landing attempts.
On the third approach, the pilot touched down within the first third of the runway. However, upon applying the brakes, the aircraft experienced significantly poor traction on the grass surface. Despite attempts to steer the aircraft away from the perimeter, the plane overran the runway and struck a tree stump located within the boundary hedgerow. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft's lower fuselage and propeller, but the pilot exited the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the environmental factors present during the landing. Post-accident inspections confirmed that the aircraft's braking system was fully functional and no mechanical failures contributed to the incident.
Investigators analyzed the runway surface and weather data, noting that while the pilot had observed rain earlier, the runway was not dry. The investigation also reviewed the performance specifications of the Cessna 172M, specifically how factors such as runway slope, wind, and surface moisture affect required landing distances. It was noted that the airfield's runway has a slight downslope in the direction of the accident.
Findings
- The pilot was properly licensed and qualified for the operation.
- The aircraft experienced poor braking action due to the damp grass surface.
- The required landing distance, when adjusted for the prevailing crosswind, the runway slope, and the wet grass condition, exceeded the available runway length.
- The pilot had previously experienced two go-arounds due to turbulence, indicating difficult operating conditions.
- A decision to divert to a more suitable airfield or to cancel the flight would have been a safer alternative given the weather and surface conditions.