What happened
On July 1, 2024, a private VFR flight traveling from Skive to Endelave (EKEL) resulted in a runway excursion. During the approach to runway 29, the pilot noted a nearby road that required a specific approach profile to avoid flying too low. To familiarize themselves with the field, the pilot performed an extra circuit to assess wind conditions, which were approximately 5-1/2 knots from the south/southwest.
As the aircraft, a Reims Aviation F 172 M registration OY-BFK, transitioned through the flare, the pilot experienced an unexpected sink rate and increased engine power to compensate. The aircraft landed near the runway centerline. Upon attempting to decelerate, the pilot found that the wheel brakes were ineffective on the wet, short-mown grass. Realizing the aircraft was not stopping, the pilot attempted a left turn toward an adjacent field, but the aircraft overran the runway end and collided with willow trees, causing substantial damage to the airframe. There were no injuries to the two occupants.
The investigation
The Danish Accident Investigation Board examined the aircraft's technical condition, the runway surface, and the pilot's approach parameters. The investigation reviewed the pilot's operational documents, noting that the available runway length was approximately 600 meters rather than the 650 meters listed in the pilot's reference guide. The investigation also analyzed the impact of the wet grass surface on braking action and the effect of the pilot's power adjustment on the landing roll.
Findings
Several contributing factors led to the accident:
- The pilot's focus on avoiding the nearby road and navigating a displaced threshold likely impacted the precision of the approach.
- A potentially higher-than-recommended sink rate and airspeed, combined with a possible light tailwind, extended the required landing distance.
- The pilot's decision to increase engine power during the flare further increased the ground roll.
- The decision to continue the landing at the runway centerline rather than initiating a go-around left insufficient distance for stopping.
- The wet and short-mown grass significantly reduced braking effectiveness and increased the necessary stopping distance.