What happened
On July 27, 2023, a Piper PA-28-181 Archer II, registration OY-RFK, was conducting a local VFR flight at Roskilde Airport (EKRK). The pilot was performing the flight to fulfill requirements for a Single Engine Piston (SEP) land rating. During the approach to runway 21, the pilot experienced stress after failing to maintain visual contact with preceding traffic.
Due to the traffic situation, the pilot flew an extended left-hand base leg. The approach became unstable, with the aircraft's airspeed significantly exceeding the recommended 66 knots. As the aircraft crossed the runway threshold, the speed was approximately 84 knots. Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced, causing the pilot to increase engine power to prevent a hard second impact. This power increase maintained a high airspeed and extended the landing roll. During the subsequent rollout, the pilot lost directional control, causing the aircraft to exit the runway side via taxiway A3, crossing taxiway A and descending a small slope. The propeller struck the ground, causing the engine to stop and resulting in substantial damage to the nose gear, propeller, and wings.
The investigation
The Danish Accident Investigation Board examined the aircraft's technical condition, the pilot's training history, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation focused on the aircraft's configuration, including flap settings and airspeed, as well as the pilot's decision-making process during the final stages of the approach. Investigators also reviewed the pilot's recent flight experience and the possibility of mental errors regarding airspeed references.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an unstable approach characterized by an approach speed significantly higher than recommended.
- The pilot's decision to continue the landing rather than executing a go-around contributed to the sequence of events.
- The initial bounce and subsequent touchdown caused the aircraft to become airborne again.
- To prevent a hard second impact, the pilot increased engine power, which kept the airspeed high and lengthened the landing distance.
- The pilot lost directional control during the extended landing roll.
- A contributing factor was the pilot's potential use of an incorrect airspeed reference, likely subconsciously referring to mph (from a different aircraft type) instead of knots.
- The pilot's recent flight routine, which included long periods without flying, may have indirectly influenced the handling of the landing.