What happened
On the morning of September 5, 2012, a Cessna 172, registered F-GNER, departed from Briare Chatillon for Coëx aerodrome carrying a pilot and three passengers. During the approach to runway 19, the pilot performed the landing with full flaps (30°). As the aircraft reached the flare, the pilot perceived that the touchdown point was too far down the runway. While the aircraft was still in the landing roll, the pilot initiated a go-around by transitioning to takeoff configuration (10° flaps). During this aborted landing, the aircraft veered off the unpaved runway and struck a hedge approximately 2 meters high located 115 meters beyond the runway end.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's weight, balance, and performance capabilities. While the pilot's center of gravity calculations were within manufacturer limits, the investigation revealed that the pilot had underestimated the onboard fuel weight. Consequently, the actual takeoff mass was 1,207 kg, which exceeded the aircraft's maximum certified mass of 1,158 kg.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's meteorological preparations, which indicated a north wind of approximately 10 knots. Radar data showed the aircraft flying at 900 feet before entering a left-hand circuit with a tailwind component. On-site analysis of the aircraft's trim revealed that the elevator trim was set in a nose-down position. Furthermore, while the pilot had calculated weight and balance, he had not performed specific takeoff or landing performance calculations for the day's conditions.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating significantly overweight, exceeding its maximum certified mass.
- The pilot made a late decision to initiate a go-around after realizing the aircraft was landing too long on the runway.
- The aircraft's performance during the go-around was degraded by the excessive weight and the nose-down elevator trim setting.
- The presence of a tailwind component contributed to the long landing distance.