Accident Details
On 4 September 1999 at 1200 UTC, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration G-AVOZ) was involved in a runway overrun at Gunton Park, near Cromer, Norfolk. The flight was a private operation with one pilot and one passenger on board.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, manufactured in 1964, was powered by a single Lycoming L-10450-45 piston engine. The pilot, aged 66, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 463 flying hours, of which 278 were on the PA-28-180 type. In the preceding 90 days, he had flown 10 hours, with 3 hours in the last 28 days.
Sequence of Events
The pilot conducted a normal approach to grass Runway 36, which was 800 metres long. Weather conditions were CAVOK with calm winds. After passing over tall trees near the runway threshold, the pilot made what he considered to be a normal touchdown with sufficient runway remaining. However, braking effectiveness on the lush grass surface was less than expected. The aircraft overran the runway end and collided with a stout wire fence.
Damage and Injuries
The collision resulted in substantial damage to the propeller, nose landing gear, engine mounts, and exhaust system. The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the passenger was uninjured. Both occupants vacated the aircraft without further incident.
Pilot's Comments
In hindsight, the pilot noted that using a short field landing technique rather than the normal procedure might have prevented the overrun.