Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft involved was a Cessna F172H Skyhawk, registration G-AWUX, manufactured in 1968. It was powered by a single Continental Motors Corp O-300-D piston engine. The commander, aged 53, held a Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 305 flying hours, with 242 hours on type. His recent flying experience included 5 hours in the last 90 days and 4 hours in the last 28 days.
Flight and Landing
The flight was a private operation. The pilot executed an uneventful approach to Runway 27 with 40° flap selected. The aircraft touched down at 58 knots. Normal braking was commenced, but the aircraft encountered an area of damp green grass, causing it to skid slightly.
Incident
The pilot was unable to stop the aircraft completely. Just before reaching the end of the runway, he steered to the right in an attempt to avoid a low hedge and a retaining wall beyond. However, the aircraft struck both objects at a slow speed, estimated to be less than 10 knots. The impact brought the aircraft to rest.
Damage and Occupants
The left wing strut and cowling were dented. Both occupants, the pilot and one passenger, were able to evacuate the aircraft without difficulty through their respective cabin doors. No injuries were reported.