What happened
On 22 November 2018, a Piper PA-28-181 Cherokee Archer III, registration G-BXTW, was conducting a private flight from Wolverhampton Halfpenny Green Airport to its base at Compton Abbas Airfield. The pilot, flying under an instrument rating (restricted), navigated much of the route above the cloud layer. Upon descending through the haze to join the left base for Runway 08, the aircraft drifted below and to the right of the standard approach profile.
During the descent, the aircraft's right wing and tailplane struck the tops of trees located near the approach path. The pilot felt a sudden impact and immediately applied power and a left bank to correct the flight path. Despite the collision, the pilot successfully completed the landing without further incident. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the flight circumstances and the aircraft's condition following the impact. The investigation noted that the terrain approaching Runway 08 rises from the north and west, which can create a deceptive visual perspective for approaching pilots. While the trees involved are typically cleared by 100 to 150 feet during a standard approach, the aircraft's deviation brought it into direct contact with the foliage.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's recent flying history and mental state. Although the pilot was highly experienced on this specific aircraft type, his recent flying hours had been low. Furthermore, the pilot noted that personal distractions may have influenced his situational awareness during the final stages of the flight.
Findings
- The aircraft's flight path deviated significantly from the established approach profile.
- The collision was caused by the aircraft descending below and to the right of the normal approach path.
- The pilot's attention may have been compromised by personal matters being on his mind during the approach.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the leading edge and tip of the right wing, as well as the tailplane.