What happened
On 22 June 2001, a Piper PA-3/2-300, registration G-OCPF, was completing a private flight from Exeter to Guernsey Airport. During the landing phase on Runway 27, the aircraft experienced a normal touchdown. However, as the aircraft's speed decelerated from 50 kts to 40 kts, it suddenly swerved to the left. This movement caused the aircraft to depart the paved runway surface and come to a stop on the grass. The impact of the excursion resulted in the collapse of the nose landing gear and damage to the propeller. There were no injuries to the pilot or the three passengers on board.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition following the incident. An engineering inspection revealed no technical defects that could explain why the aircraft veered off the runway. The investigation also focused on the cockpit environment. It was noted that a passenger was seated in the front right seat and was actively engaged in video photography during the landing. The pilot had not provided a specific briefing to this passenger, who was not a frequent flyer in light aircraft, regarding the importance of staying clear of the flight controls during critical stages of flight.
Findings
- The aircraft's steering and braking systems were found to be fully functional.
- The sudden leftward veer was not caused by any mechanical failure.
- An inadvertent input of the rudder pedals or toe brakes by the passenger, who was distracted by filming, was a possible contributing factor.