What happened
On 10 October 1998, a Jodel DR1050-M, registration G-JODL, was conducting a private flight to a farm strip in Leicestershire. The pilot had originally intended to land on Runway 20, based on wind data received from a nearby commercial airfield indicating a wind of 250°/10 kt. This runway offered a landing distance of 470 yards.
Upon approaching the destination, the pilot received updated information stating that the surface wind was 290°/07 kt and that Runway 29 was currently in use. Despite this update, the pilot proceeded with the approach to Runway 20. As the aircraft neared the runway, the pilot noted an increase in groundspeed but chose to continue the landing instead of performing a go-around. Due to the reduced braking efficiency caused by wet grass, the pilot was unable to stop the aircraft within the available runway length. The aircraft subsequently struck a hedge at the end of the strip, resulting in minor damage to the propeller and wing fabric. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the pilot's decision-making process regarding the change in wind conditions and the impact of the runway surface on the aircraft's stopping distance. The pilot's flight experience was noted, including 211 total hours, with 50 hours on this specific type.