Incident Overview
On 18 May 2004, at 1845 hours UTC, a Piper PA-28-161 Cherokee Warrior 11, registration G-BFNJ, experienced a directional control issue during landing at Lee-on-Solent Airfield, Hampshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1977 and powered by a single Lycoming O-320-D3G piston engine, was being operated on a private flight with only the pilot on board.
Sequence of Events
The pilot had performed two touch-and-go approaches on Runway 23 before initiating a final approach for a full-stop landing. After touchdown, the aircraft initially tracked straight down the runway. It then swung violently to the right, and the pilot was unable to prevent it from leaving the paved surface. The aircraft came to rest approximately 90 degrees from the runway heading.
Conditions and Pilot Experience
The runway surface was dry, and the wind was estimated from 260° at 6 to 7 knots, with no significant weather. The pilot held a Private Pilot's Licence, was 53 years old, and had a total flying experience of 144 hours, of which 37 were on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 3 hours, with none in the last 28 days. He reported no directional control problems on the previous touch-and-go approaches and was unaware of any factor that could have contributed to the swing to the right.
Damage and Inspection
Inspection revealed damage limited to the engine frame, probably caused when the aircraft crossed a shallow gully as it left the runway. The engine frame was replaced, and a 50-hour check was subsequently carried out. This check identified no faults that could have affected the braking system. The aircraft was returned to service with no further reoccurrence to date.