What happened
On 14 August 2024, a private flight was being conducted from Lydd to Rochester Airport in a Piper PA-28-181, registration G-EPYW. During the approach, the pilot was informed by the Flight Information Services Officer (FISO) that the runway in use was changing. Due to concerns regarding the stability of the approach, the pilot executed a go-around. During this maneuver, the FISO advised the pilot to reposition for Runway 20 due to a change in wind direction.
While performing the climbing right-hand orbit to reposition, the pilot faced an increased workload. Upon approaching Runway 20, the pilot configured the aircraft with two stages of flap. Although the pilot perceived the approach as stable, the aircraft touched down approximately 190 m from the threshold at a ground speed of 190 m from the threshold at a ground speed of 91 kt, which was significantly higher than the recommended approach speed.
Following several bounces on the grass surface, the pilot applied heavy braking, but the aircraft failed to decelerate effectively. In an attempt to slow the aircraft through an aerodynamic stall, the pilot pulled back hard on the yoke. This caused the aircraft to become airborne again, clearing the airfield boundary fence and a local road before coming to rest in a wooded embankment. The aircraft sustained significant damage, including the detachment of both wings, and was damaged beyond economic repair. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight path using data from a flight-planning and navigation application, which provided altitude and ground speed information. CCTV footage from the airfield was also reviewed to analyze the landing roll. The investigation compared the aircraft's actual performance against the manufacturer's Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) and CAA safety guidance regarding landing distances on grass surfaces.
Findings
- The pilot experienced a period of high workload following the simultaneous occurrence of a go-around and a change in the runway in use.
- The aircraft landed long at a higher than recommended speed, specifically touching down at 91 kt during the flare.
- The decision to follow the FISO's suggestion for a new runway approach was made without sufficient time to consider the implications of the reduced time available to decelerate.
- The landing distance required exceeded the available runway length due to the high touchdown speed and the nature of the grass surface.