What happened
On 24 October 2013, a Piper PA-3-200 Seneca, registration G-BASM, was performing a private flight from Andrewsfield Aerodrome to Denham Aerodrome. While joining the circuit for Runway 06, the pilot was instructed by the Air/Ground operator to execute a go-around to maintain separation from another aircraft in the circuit.
Upon increasing power for the go-around, both engines began running roughly, preventing the pilot from maintaining altitude. The pilot transitioned to the crosswind leg and notified the aerodrome operator of the engine issues. In an attempt to stabilize the flight, the pilot adjusted the throttle, mixture, and carburettor heat, but the roughness persisted.
Approaching the runway at approximately 350 ft, the pilot maintained a higher-than-normal airspeed of between 85 kt and 90 kt. Due to concerns regarding available power, the pilot opted not to attempt another go-around. The aircraft touched down roughly halfway down the runway. Despite the application of heavy braking, the aircraft failed to stop on the paved surface, overran the runway, breached the aerodrome boundary fence, and crossed a public road before stopping in a field. The pilot escaped the substantially damaged aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the engine performance and the circumstances leading to the high-speed approach. The investigation noted that the aircraft had recently undergone annual maintenance, which included two ground runs of the engines in the preceding week. The pilot had not flown for more than three months prior to the accident.
Investigators reviewed the runway characteristics at Denham, noting that the asphalt surface of Runway 06 has a landing distance available of 706 m. While the standard landing ground roll for this aircraft type at maximum weight is approximately 427 m, the pilot's approach speed was significantly higher than usual. The investigation also considered the pilot's suspicion of potential fuel contamination, though no specific evidence of contamination was confirmed during the flight sequence.
Findings
- The pilot performed the landing at a higher than normal airspeed.
- The decision not to attempt a second go-around was driven by a lack of confidence in engine power following the initial roughness.
- The aircraft overran the runway after the pilot was unable to stop the aircraft within the remaining paved distance.