What happened
On 26 May 2020, a Cirrus SR2SS, registration N374SR, was performing a private flight from Gloucester Airport to Fairoaks Airport. During the landing on Runway 24, the pilot experienced an unexpected float during the flare. Despite selecting idle power, the aircraft did not settle as anticipated and touched down a considerable distance along the runway.
As the aircraft continued along the paved surface, the pilot realized there was insufficient distance remaining to stop. Due to the presence of trees in the overshoot path, the pilot determined that a go-around was no longer a safe option. Despite applying full braking, the aircraft exited the runway, breached the airfield boundary fence, and crossed a public footpath before striking trees. The pilot was able to exit the cockpit unassisted and sustained no injuries, though the aircraft suffered significant damage to its wings, fuselage, propeller, and landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation examined the engine performance and environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The pilot noted that during the flare, the engine stabilized at approximately 1,000 rpm, which was significantly higher than the expected range of 625 to 650 rpm. A review of the technical logs for N374SR confirmed that the engine idle speed had been consistently high, at or above 960 rpm, during recent power checks.
Investigators also assessed the meteorological conditions, noting a hot day with a light and variable north-westerly breeze that provided little to no headwind component. Furthermore, the investigation looked at the pilot's decision-making process regarding the landing and the potential for a go-around.
Findings
- The primary cause of the overrun was the aircraft landing too far down the runway, leaving insufficient distance to stop.
- A higher than normal engine idle speed likely contributed to the aircraft floating during the approach.
- The lack of a significant headwind component meant the aircraft's groundspeed was not reduced relative to its approach speed.
- The decision to continue the landing rather than initiating a go-around contributed to the accident, as a go-around might have been successful had it been attempted before the trees in the overshoot path became a hazard.