Introduction
On 9 September 2006, a Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, registered G-AVGD, experienced a loss of directional control during landing at Wellesbourne Mountford Airfield, Warwickshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1967 and powered by a Lycoming IO-320-E2A piston engine, was conducting a private flight from Cranfield. The pilot, aged 47 and holding a Private Pilot's Licence, had accumulated 105 flying hours, with 9 hours on type, including 10 hours in the last 90 days and 3 hours in the last 28 days.
Flight History
The flight from Cranfield was uneventful. Upon arrival at Wellesbourne Mountford, the pilot joined the circuit and positioned onto final approach for Runway 18. The reported wind was 100º/11 kt. The pilot initially used the crab technique to align the aircraft with the runway centreline. On short final approach, he selected full flap and transitioned to the wing-down method, applying left aileron and right rudder for crosswind correction.
Landing and Accident Sequence
As the aircraft crossed the threshold, the speed had reduced to approximately 65 mph. The pilot increased it slightly by applying a little more power. Touchdown on the main wheels was reportedly smooth and occurred about 180 m from the threshold. However, when the nosewheel contacted the runway, the aircraft veered violently to the left and turned onto a disused runway that intersected Runway 18 some 250 m from the threshold. During the turn, the right wing tip struck the ground, but the aircraft subsequently righted itself. As it did so, the nosewheel collapsed, the propeller struck the ground, and the aircraft came to an immediate halt. The pilot turned off the fuel and master switch, and both occupants vacated the aircraft without difficulty.
Pilot Comments
The pilot later commented that the aircraft may have encountered a gust of wind between the main wheels and the nosewheel touching down. As an instinctive reaction to being pushed to the right, he considered that he may have inadvertently applied too much left rudder, which, combined with left aileron already applied, may have caused the violent turn to the left.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to the collapsed nosewheel, right wing tip, nose underside, propeller, and engine mounts. The passenger sustained a graze to the left leg, and the pilot sustained a cut finger; both injuries were classified as minor.