History of the Flight
The pilot, flying a Piper PA-28-161 Cherokee Warrior II (registration G-RIZZ), attempted two landings on grass Runway 24 at Sibson Airfield on 10 February 2008. Both attempts were abandoned due to a low sun distracting the pilot. After the second abort, the pilot elected to land on grass Runway 15. While on the base leg for Runway 15, the low sun again caused the pilot to lose visual references of the airfield. Consequently, the final approach was high and fast.
The pilot thought he was probably too high and fast but had the impression he would be able to stop on the runway and continued the approach. The aircraft touched down at the intersection with Runway 24, approximately 165 metres into the 551-metre-long wet grass runway. The wind at the time was from 110° at 4 knots with an outside air temperature of 8°C. Despite brake application, the aircraft failed to stop on the short, wet grass and departed the end of the runway, coming to rest in a ditch at the airfield boundary.
Damage and Injuries
The propeller, nose gear, and wing were damaged. The pilot and passenger were uninjured and exited the aircraft normally.
Pilot Information
The commander held a Private Pilot’s Licence, was 43 years old, and had 177 total flying hours (41 on type). In the last 90 days, he had flown 3 hours; in the last 28 days, 3 hours.