What happened
On 11 August 2006, a Cessable 182Q, registration G-BWRR, was conducting a private flight from Fishburn, County Durham, to Lower Withial Farm in Somerset. Following recent rain showers, the pilot observed scattered rain in the area and circled the airfield for five minutes to allow the weather to clear.
Upon approaching the 500-metre grass runway, the pilot initially attempted an approach to Runway 05. However, GPS data indicated a tailwind, prompting the pilot to reposition for an approach to Runway 23. The aircraft was configured with 40 degrees of flaps and an approach speed of 60 knots.
While the initial touchdown occurred within the first third of the strip, the aircraft subsequently struck an undulation in the grass surface. This caused the aircraft to become airborne again. The pilot applied a small amount of power to arrest the descent, which resulted in a second touchdown further down the runway.
During the subsequent landing roll, the pilot applied brakes, but the wet grass provided minimal deceleration. The aircraft continued toward the end of the strip, where an electric fence was located. The pilot attempted to steer the aircraft away from the fence but was unsuccessful. The aircraft passed through the electric fence and struck a parked car, coming to rest approximately 10 metres beyond the boundary. There were no injuries to the pilot or the three passengers, though the aircraft sustained damage to the nosewheel spat, lower engine cowling, right strut, and horizontal stabiliser.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's performance on wet grass and the impact of the terrain. It was noted that the aircraft's GPS indicated a 5-knot headwind during the final approach. The investigators reviewed the Pilot's Operating Handbook, which notes that landing on wet grass can lead to significantly increased ground rolls and potential hydroplaning. Additionally, the investigation considered the impact of the undulation encountered during the landing roll, which had caused the aircraft to briefly lift off the surface.