What happened
On 6 April 2007, a Cirrus SR-22, registration N220RJ, was performing a private flight when it overran the runway at Tetbury. The aircraft touched down approximately 100 metres inside the threshold of Runway 09 using a full-flap configuration. While the weather conditions were favorable, featuring a 5-knot headwind and dry ground, the aircraft encountered issues immediately upon contact with the grass surface.
As the pilot attempted to decelerate, the wheels locked, causing the aircraft to skid across the grass runway, which has a landing distance available of 635 metres. In an attempt to regain directional control, the pilot applied heavy pressure to the right brake only, but this failed to steer the aircraft. The aircraft continued its excursion at a low speed until it collided with a dry stone wall. The impact resulted in no injuries to the pilot or the single passenger on board, though the aircraft sustained damage to its propeller and wheel fairing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the landing performance on the grass surface and the pilot's braking techniques. The inquiry reviewed the aircraft's mechanical state and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation also considered the implications of landing on a grass runway, noting that such surfaces can influence braking effectiveness and wheel adhesion.