Incident Overview
On December 14, 2014, a Piper PA-28 Archer III (model PA 28-181) operated by a German flying club experienced a runway overrun at Zell am See Airport in Salzburg, Austria. The incident occurred at approximately 13:55 UTC during a landing from Augsburg, Germany.
Flight Details and Conditions
The aircraft, manufactured in 1996 with serial number 28-43049, had accumulated approximately 4,800 flight hours. At the time of the accident, weather conditions were favorable for visual flight rules, with visibility exceeding 40 km, calm winds, and a temperature of 3°C. The pilot held valid licenses and ratings, including a UK Private Pilot License (A) with single-engine piston privileges.
Accident Sequence
The pilot initiated the final approach to Runway 08, which has a length of 540 meters. However, the aircraft touched down approximately 250 meters past the runway threshold. Due to the high speed during the approach and the late touchdown point, the aircraft could not be brought to a stop within the remaining runway distance. It crossed the opposite threshold (Runway 26), broke through a fence at the end of the runway, and came to rest in a depression in the terrain east of the airfield.
Damage and Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that there were no pre-existing technical defects contributing to the accident. The aircraft sustained significant damage, including to the left wingtip, propeller, spinner, and cowling. The fence at the runway end was also lightly damaged. The pilot suffered one serious injury, while no passengers were on board. The probable cause was identified as a long landing resulting from excessive airspeed and a late touchdown.