Accident Overview
On 22 June 2016 at 1340 hours UTC, an Aeroprakt A22 Foxbat, registration G-CHAD, operated by a private pilot, experienced a runway excursion during landing at Mitton Farm Airstrip near Penkridge, Staffordshire. The single-engine aircraft (Rotax 912ULS piston engine) sustained damage to the propeller, nose leg, and nose leg fuselage brackets. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured.
Flight Details
The pilot, aged 67, held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 254 total flying hours, with 138 hours on type. In the preceding 90 days, he had flown 3 hours, and in the last 28 days, 1 hour. The flight was conducted under visual flight rules as a private operation.
Accident Sequence
Mitton Farm Airstrip features a single grass runway oriented 10/28. At the time of the landing, a crop of wheat approximately 70 cm tall bordered both sides of the runway. The wind was from 135° at 5 to 10 knots. The approach and initial touchdown on Runway 10 appeared normal. During the landing roll, the pilot applied the brakes. The aircraft skidded and departed the left side of the runway, entering the wheat crop before coming to a stop.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot, who had previously landed at the airstrip, reported that the grass on the runway was “much longer than normal” for the accident landing. He also noted that the surface was damp from recent rain. He considered that these conditions contributed to the loss of directional control during the braking phase.
Damage and Outcome
The aircraft sustained damage to the nose landing gear, its fuselage attachment brackets, and the propeller. No injuries occurred. The pilot submitted an Aircraft Accident Report Form to the AAIB, which published the bulletin.
Runway and Environmental Conditions
The grass runway was oriented 10/28. Wheat crops approximately 70 cm tall were adjacent to both sides. Wind at the time was from 135° at 5 to 10 knots. The pilot identified long grass and damp surface from recent rain as factors affecting the landing.