Accident Overview
At 1130 hours on 11 September 2009, a Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, registration G-ATUD, sustained extensive damage during a landing accident at Belle Vue Airstrip in Yarnscombe, Devon. The private flight was conducted by a 74-year-old pilot holding a Private Pilot's Licence with 403 hours total flying experience, of which 303 hours were on type. The pilot had flown only 4 hours in the preceding 90 days and 2 hours in the last 28 days. The aircraft, manufactured in 1966, was powered by a single Lycoming O-320-E3D piston engine. Both occupants—the pilot and one passenger—were able to exit the aircraft through the door after the accident. No fire occurred.
Sequence of Events
The pilot initiated an approach to Runway 08 at Belle Vue. Weather conditions were benign with an easterly wind estimated at 10 knots. The approach became slightly high, prompting the pilot to reduce power. During this phase, a high-sided lorry travelling along a road immediately short of the runway threshold attracted the pilot's attention. He watched the lorry as it cleared the runway centreline. After returning his attention to the airspeed indicator (ASI), he realised he had not been monitoring his speed; the aircraft was low and slow. He added power, but the aircraft sank. The landing gear subsequently caught on the boundary hedge, causing the aircraft to pitch inverted and impact the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the passenger suffered serious injuries. The aircraft was extensively damaged.
Probable Cause
The source does not state a probable cause.