Incident Overview
On 19 May 2000, at 13:20 local time, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration EC-HMM) operated under general aviation flight tests experienced a runway excursion during landing at Casarrubios del Monte aerodrome in Toledo, Spain. The aircraft was manufactured in 1978 and was powered by a single Lycoming O-360-A4M engine. The pilot, aged 28 and holding a commercial pilot license with 293 total flight hours, was accompanied by one passenger.
Flight and Approach
The aircraft departed from the same aerodrome for a local flight to perform various in-flight tests. After completing them, the pilot decided to return. The first approach to runway 26 was aborted due to excessive height, and the pilot executed a go-around. During the second approach, the aircraft again crossed the runway threshold at an excessive altitude, but the pilot continued rather than aborting. The touchdown occurred beyond the midpoint of the runway.
Runway Excursion and Damage
The pilot applied brakes but could not stop the aircraft within the remaining runway length. The airplane departed the runway end and came to rest a few meters beyond. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to one wing and the landing gear. Both occupants were uninjured.
Analysis
Investigation determined that the first approach was defective, forcing a go-around. On the second attempt, the approach was similarly defective, with the aircraft too high over the threshold. The pilot continued the landing despite having the option to go around again. The resultant long landing left insufficient runway for braking, leading to the overrun.