What happened
On 29 September 2007, a Skyranger 912S, registration G-CDIU, was conducting a private flight at Roddige Lane in Lichfield, Staffordshire. During the approach to the 390-metre grass runway, the pilot maintained an airspeed of 55 knots with the second stage of flaps set. The pilot noted that the aircraft was flying higher than usual, though they initially believed the situation was manageable based on a similar landing performed the previous week.
The aircraft landed on the dry, firm, and short-grass strip. As the aircraft progressed along the runway, all three wheels remained in contact with the ground. The pilot attempted to use full aft stick and applied brake pressure, but the aircraft failed to respond as expected, making steering and deceleration difficult. Consequently, the aircraft ran off the end of the runway and entered a ditch. The impact resulted in a bent front wheel strut, propeller damage, and slight displacement of the engine and dashboard. There were no fatalities, though one passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight conditions and the pilot's actions during the landing phase. The investigation established that the wind conditions were 280 degrees at 10 knots. The pilot provided an account via the Aircraft Accident Report Form, noting that the combination of the approach height and the specific surface conditions contributed to the loss of control. The pilot also acknowledged that the error was their own.