What happened
On June 1, 1978, a Piper PA-24-260 (registration HB-OYV) was performing a private VFR flight from Altenrhein to Lommis. During the approach, the aircraft encountered a thunderstorm zone, resulting in light rain and the formation of several puddles on the grass runway at Lommis.
Upon approaching runway 25, the pilot observed these puddles and decided to delay touchdown until after passing them. To achieve this, the pilot increased engine power, which resulted in the aircraft touching down approximately 200 to 250 meters past the runway threshold at a speed roughly 10 mph above the recommended approach velocity.
As the pilot applied heavy braking, the wet grass significantly reduced braking effectiveness. Realizing the aircraft would not stop before the end of the runway and facing an obstacle ahead, the pilot applied full power approximately 150 meters before the runway end. The aircraft lifted off in a high pitch attitude, crossed an access road, and struck a wire fence with its tail and right wing. The aircraft then collided with a stack of construction timber before coming to a halt.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's technical condition, the pilot's credentials, and the environmental factors at the time of the accident. The Piper PA-24-260 was found to be in good mechanical condition, with the braking system functioning correctly. The aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within permissible limits, and there were no known health issues or alcohol impairment affecting the pilot.
Investigators analyzed the runway conditions, noting that the grass had been recently mowed and was wet due to the preceding thunderstorm. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's high pitch angle during the go-around attempt left a distinct skid mark on the ground. Additionally, the presence of the construction timber and crane at the edge of the airfield was noted, as these were obstacles the pilot had to navigate.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure to initiate a timely go-around.
- Contributing factors included a touchdown that occurred too far down the runway.
- The aircraft was landing at an excessive speed.
- The wet grass surface significantly reduced the effectiveness of the braking maneuver.