Accident Details
The aircraft, a 1980 Piper PA-28-161 Cherokee Warrior II (registration G-BSBA), was conducting a private flight from Fairoaks Airport to Sandown Airfield, Isle of Wight. The pilot, aged 60, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 108 hours total flying experience, all on type, with 4 hours in the last 90 days and 3 hours in the last 28 days. On board were the pilot and two passengers (one of whom was also a pilot in the right front seat).
Approach and Go-Around
The pilot reported that during the final approach for grass Runway 23, the aircraft was 'fairly high' but she decided to continue, intending to land further down the runway to avoid turbulence over trees on the approach. The reported wind was from 240° at 15 kt. As the pilot flared for touchdown, she realised she initiated the manoeuvre too early while the aircraft was still several feet above the runway at low airspeed. The aircraft descended and bounced, at which point the pilot applied engine power to attempt a go-around.
Loss of Control
The aircraft did not climb and veered to the left, departing the left side of the runway. It did not respond to the pilot's attempts to bring it back towards the runway. At this point, the passenger in the right front seat, who was also a pilot, took control and manoeuvred the aircraft onto the adjacent taxiway, where it was brought to a stop after striking a wire fence and a wooden post.
Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the right fuel tank, left wing leading edge, and cowling. The fence's wooden post was also damaged. No injuries were reported among the occupants.
Source Information
This report is based on the Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot to the AAIB (Bulletin 10/2017, reference EW/G2017/08/16).