What happened
On 14 September 2002, a Bulldog Series 120 Model 121, registration G-GGRR, was performing a private flight at Binstead Airstrip on the Isle of Wight. The pilot approached Runway 36, which is a grass strip measuring 400 metres in length, at a speed of 60 kt. The estimated surface winds were from 045 degrees at 5 to 10 knots.
Upon touchdown, the pilot found it impossible to maintain directional control or achieve effective braking. During the excursion, the right wing of the aircraft made contact with a small tree. The aircraft subsequently left the runway and came to rest in a field of stubble. There were no injuries to the pilot, and the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the right wing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the runway surface conditions and the topography of the landing strip. The pilot noted that the runway surface featured a slight downward gradient in the initial third, a slight rise in the middle section, and a significant downward slope in the final third of the strip. The surface at the end of the runway consisted of short, wet grass over a base of compacted clay.
Findings
- The landing surface was slippery due to the presence of wet grass and a firm subsoil.
- The aircraft was operating on a runway section with a pronounced downward gradient.
- The pilot was aware of CAA guidance regarding the increased ground roll associated with landing on wet grass, which can increase landing distance by up to 60%.
- The pilot acknowledged that landing on the opposite runway, Runway 18, would have been a safer alternative.