History of the Flight
The pilot had purchased the Piper PA-34-220T Seneca V from a company at Pribram Airport, Czech Republic. He completed ten hours of familiarisation training between 12 and 16 August, including three hours in the local circuit. On 17 August, the pilot and his instructor departed Pribram at 0755 hrs, flew to Prague, then to Biggin Hill Airport, landing at 1329 hrs. After discussing an autopilot issue, the instructor offered to accompany the pilot to Newquay, but the pilot declined. The instructor recommended flying with a safety pilot, then returned to the Czech Republic. The pilot refuelled the aircraft and departed Biggin Hill at 1634 hrs, flying alone to Newquay.
At 1815 hrs, the pilot contacted Newquay Approach, requesting a visual approach and remarking "it's been a long day." He was advised of a surface wind from 350° at 7 kt and cleared to land on Runway 30. The controller observed the aircraft touch down just after the touchdown zone and bounce. The left wing lifted and the aircraft turned toward the right side of the runway. The controller activated the crash alarm as the aircraft became airborne again. The pilot transmitted "going round" in a calm voice. The aircraft tracked toward the ATC tower in a climbing right turn, reaching about 150 ft. The controller then saw a distinct yaw to the right, the nose drop to a near-vertical attitude, and the aircraft descend rapidly, disappearing behind a building. The RFFS extinguished a small fire and determined the pilot had not survived.
Witness Information
A witness south of the runway heard a loud clattering noise as the aircraft went around, similar to an unsilenced exhaust. He saw the aircraft turning right, the left wing becoming almost vertical, then the nose dropping. Another witness saw small hops on landing, then a huge leap and the aircraft bouncing from one wheel to another. He heard engine noise increase and saw the aircraft climb in a right turn, then enter a steeply banked turn and steep descent.
Meteorological Information
The weather at Newquay was suitable for VFR flight: surface wind from 360° at 6 kt, visibility greater than 10 km, few clouds at 4,000 ft, temperature 16°C, QNH 1018 hPa. The sun was low, about 15° to the left of the runway heading.
Pilot Information
The pilot, aged 68, held a Private Pilot’s Licence with multi-engine and instrument ratings. He had an estimated 1,300+ hours total flying experience, with 16+ hours on type. His last 90 days included 16+ hours. The instructor described his initial performance as "poor" but progress was made. The pilot appeared tired during training. The instructor considered him sufficiently practised for a solo cross-country flight in good weather.
Medical and Pathological Information
The pilot held a valid Class 2 medical certificate. Post-mortem examination found no evidence of a medical condition that could have contributed to the accident.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-34-220T Seneca V, manufactured in 2001, powered by two Continental Motors TSIO-360 piston engines. It was destroyed in the accident.