What happened
On 7 April 2000, a Piper PA-28-180, registration G-KERY, was performing a short delivery flight from Southend to Thurrock, Essex, for scheduled maintenance. The weather conditions featured light winds and early morning haze. Upon arriving at Thurrock, the pilot assessed the wind and elected to land on Runway 27.
Following an initial missed approach, a second approach was attempted. The aircraft touched down at approximately 60 kt, slightly past the standard touchdown point. During the landing roll, the pilot applied the brakes, which caused the wheels to lock. After releasing and reapplying the brakes, the aircraft experienced significant yaw, necessitating heavy rudder correction.
Believing there was insufficient runway remaining to stop safely, the pilot initiated a go-around by applying full power and retracting two stages of flaps. As the aircraft accelerated to 65 kt, it failed to become airborne and struck a perimeter hedge. The aircraft then crossed a minor road and came to a stop in a nearby field. The impact resulted in the right wing detaching, the left wing becoming partially detached, and damage to the engine cowling and propeller.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The investigators examined the aircraft's performance and the environmental conditions at the airfield. The pilot, who had experience at Thurrock, was aware of the challenges posed by the short 650-metre grass runway and the proximity of the A128 road. The investigation confirmed that the pilot did not identify any mechanical or system failures prior to the incident.