History of the Flight
The pilot flew the aircraft from Rochester to Deanland, near Lewes, under good weather conditions. The aircraft was established on long finals for Runway 24, a grass runway 500 m long. The surface wind was from 290° at 5 kt, creating a slight crosswind from the right. The pilot described the approach as normal and selected full flap for a short field landing. After touching down on the runway centreline, the pilot applied brakes, and the aircraft began drifting left. It continued off the end of the runway to the left of the centreline. The left wing struck a low hangar, causing the aircraft to spin through 270°. It came to rest with the left elevator against the side of the building.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a Reims Cessna F152 (registration G-BLZH), manufactured in 1985, powered by one Lycoming O-235-L2C piston engine. The pilot held a Private Pilot's Licence, aged 78 years, with 932 total flying hours (82 on type). In the last 90 days he had flown 10 hours, with 4 hours in the last 28 days. No injuries were reported among the one crew and one passenger.
Damage
Damage was limited to the left wing and left elevator.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot considered that he should have touched down 50 m shorter and 5 kt slower. He also believed that recent wet weather had made the short grass more slippery.