What happened
On April 22, 2024, a private flight involving a Piper PA-28-140 (registration OY-BKK) was performing a landing at Kolding/Vamdrup (EKVD) under visual flight rules. During the approach to runway 01, the pilot encountered turbulence and gusts. To manage these conditions, the pilot maintained a higher approach speed than usual and limited flap extension to 25 degrees.
Upon touchdown in the overrun area, the wind direction shifted from northeast to northwest. This change exerted pressure on the aircraft, pushing it toward the right. The right main gear crossed the runway boundary and entered the grass safety zone. To prevent the right main gear from striking the paved runway edge with high force, the pilot allowed the aircraft to continue into the safety area with the intention of correcting the heading and taxiing back onto the runway at a moderate speed.
As the pilot leaned forward to reach the brake lever located on the lower instrument panel, their left foot slipped between the pedals. This accidental movement caused the aircraft to veer further to the right. During the deceleration, the leading edge of the right wing struck a wooden fence post situated between the safety zone and an adjacent field, partially toppling the post.
The investigation
The investigation established that the aircraft sustained damage to the right wing leading edge. There were no injuries to the pilot or any occupants. The investigation also confirmed that the collision with the wooden post caused the post to partially collapse.
Findings
- The aircraft veered off the runway following a sudden shift in wind direction.
- The pilot's left foot slipped between the pedals while attempting to reach the brake control, causing an unintended turn to the right.
- The aircraft's right main gear exited the paved runway surface into the grass safety zone.