What happened
On 18 January 2003, a Piper PA-32RT-300 Cherokee Lance II, registration G-TFYN, was performing a private flight from Bourn to Leicester Airport. During the approach to Runway 15, which featured a wet asphalt surface, the aircraft touched down approximately halfway down the runway.
Upon touchdown, the pilot attempted to decelerate using firm braking. However, the aircraft failed to slow down as expected. Realising that the remaining runway length was insufficient to bring the aircraft to a halt, the pilot applied full power in an attempt to execute a go-around. Before the aircraft could regain flight, it exited the runway and entered an open, boggy field, where it pitched forward onto its nose. The impact caused damage to the engine, propeller, nose wheel, and firewall. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the conditions at the time of the accident, noting broken cloud at 3,000 feet and light showers. Emergency services, including the airfield fire and rescue team, attended the scene promptly to inspect the aircraft for fuel leaks and ensure the master switches and fuel selectors were turned off.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating on a wet runway surface.
- The pilot's attempt to stop the aircraft via braking was unsuccessful.
- The decision to initiate a go-around was made because the aircraft would not stop within the remaining runway distance.
- The failure of the aircraft to decelerate effectively led to the excursion into the soft ground at the end of the runway.