What happened
On 16 June 2022, a Robin DR400/140B, registration G-BDUY, was participating in a group flight from Hatton to East Kirkby Aviation Centre. During the approach to the unlicensed aerodrome, the pilot observed a parked aircraft on what appeared to be Runway 24, prompting a go-around. The pilot then joined left downwind for Runway 26 at a circuit height of 500 ft, as indicated on the chart being used.
While focused on navigating around nearby trees during the final approach, the pilot realized upon touchdown that the available landing distance was insufficient. Rather than executing a further go-around, the pilot applied maximum braking due to trees positioned directly ahead. Consequently, the aircraft veered off the intended area and came to rest on a grassy bank. There were no fatalities and no injuries to the two occupants, though the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, nose, left main landing gear, and lower fuselage.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation identified significant discrepancies between the various sources of airfield information. The chart used by the pilot specified a 50 and 500 ft circuit height, whereas the airfield's website indicated a height of 800 ft. Furthermore, the pilot's chart lacked specific instructions regarding the telephone briefing required for certain runway operations.
The investigation also noted that the airfield layout, consisting of unmarked grass strips, differed significantly from the pilot's expectations. While the airfield operator intended to address the discrepancies in published data, the investigation highlighted that the low circuit height and the lack of an overhead joining procedure limited the pilot's ability to orient themselves effectively.