What happened
On 25 October 2009, a Zenair CH 701 STOL, registration G-BRDB, was performing a local flight near Benington Airstrip in Hertfordshire. The pilot had been flying in the area to check the engine oil temperature following an oil change.
During the flight, the aircraft passed through a light rain shower. As the pilot prepared to land on Runway 24, the combination of the low sun angle and rain residue on the windscreen significantly obscured the view of the runway. The pilot initially attempted an approach to Runway 24 but decided to execute a go-around. The pilot then repositioned for an approach to Runway 06, noting a tailwind component.
While the approach speed was maintained at 45 kt, the aircraft was positioned higher and more downwind than usual. The aircraft touched down deep into the grass runway. Despite the use of brakes, the aircraft overran the end of the runway, causing the nosewheel to drop into a ditch and the aircraft to pitch onto its nose. There were no injuries to the pilot, and no fire occurred.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the approach and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation established that the pilot had experienced reduced visibility due to the sun's position and moisture on the windscreen. The investigation also reviewed the flight path and the touchdown point on the 460-metre grass runway.
Findings
- The pilot's vision was impaired by the low sun angle and rain on the windscreen.
- The aircraft touched down further along the runway than was optimal for the conditions.
- The primary cause was the touchdown occurring too far down the runway given the existing tailwind and visibility constraints.