What happened
On 14 May 2001, a Mooney M20J, registration N909RM, was performing a private flight when it overran the runway at Thurrock Airfield, Essex. During the approach to Runway 27, which consisted of a 650-metre wet grass surface, the pilot maintained an approach speed of 80 kt, which increased to 80 kt again during the final stages as an attempt was made to correct a high approach.
Upon touchdown, the pilot applied the brakes, but the aircraft encountered a bump on the runway that caused it to become airborne a second time. Following this subsequent touchdown, the pilot attempted to apply the brakes again, but they appeared to be ineffective. The aircraft subsequently exited the runway and collided with a boundary hedge at approximately 20 kt. The pilot, who was wearing a lap and diagonal upper torso restraint, sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the conditions at the airfield and the pilot's handling of the landing. It was noted that the grass runway surface was wet and the wind was light at 250°/5 kt. The pilot's experience included 411 total flying hours, with 547 hours on type, though recent flying experience was limited to 5 hours within the preceding 28 and 90 days. The investigation also considered the pilot's assessment of the remaining runway length and the mechanical behavior of the braking system during the landing roll.