What happened
On 31 October 2004, a Piper PA-38-112, registration G-BNSL, was conducting a solo training flight at Pembrey Airport in Carmarthenshire. The flight followed a 15-minute dual circuit session with an instructor. Weather conditions at the time were favorable, characterized by calm surface winds.
The student pilot was operating on runway 22, which features a concrete surface and a landing distance available of 767 metres. At the far end of this runway, a wire mesh fence stands approximately five feet high, necessitating a 180-degree turn by pilots to backtrack after landing.
After completing approximately 45 minutes of various circuit maneuvers, including touch-and-go landings and go-arounds, the pilot performed a final landing using full flaps. While the touchdown occurred at the correct speed and on the runway threshold, the pilot noted that the aircraft's deceleration was less than expected. As the aircraft approached the end of the runway, the pilot attempted a right-hand turn, but the left wing tip made contact with the fence. The aircraft was brought to a stop and the engine was shut down.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry examined the flight parameters, the runway configuration, and the pilot's actions during the landing roll. The investigation established that the pilot had experienced a lack of anticipated retardation during the landing phase.
Findings
- The pilot misjudged the aircraft's deceleration during the landing roll.
- The braking application was initiated too late to prevent the aircraft from reaching the end of the available runway distance.
- The contact was limited to the left wing tip, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft.
- There were no injuries to the pilot.