What happened
On 13 April 2008, a Cessna 152, registration G-BWEV, was conducting a private flight from Andrewsfield in Essex to Full Sutton Airfield in Yorkshire. During the arrival, the pilot noted that light rain was affecting visibility, though the airfield remained visible from the downwind position. Upon contacting Full Sutton Radio, the pilot was informed of the active runway and the local QFE.
While on final approach to Runway 22, the pilot determined the aircraft was too high. To correct this, the engine power was reduced to idle and full flaps were deployed. This reduction in propeller wash led to a significant accumulation of raindrops on the windscreen, further obscende the pilot's vision. Consequently, the pilot flared the aircraft slightly high, resulting in a touchdown deep into the 772-metre runway.
Despite the late touchdown, the pilot believed there was sufficient distance to stop. However, the braking action on the wet grass was insufficient. The aircraft overran the end of the runway and entered soft ground, where it subsequently underwent a slow nose-over. The pilot, who was uninjured, was able to exit the inverted aircraft through the standard door.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The inquiry focused on the sequence of the approach, the impact of the weather conditions on visibility, and the effectiveness of the braking on the runway surface.