AAIB investigation to Piper PA-32R-300 Lance, N83VK
Loss of directional control after landing, Stapleford Aerodrome, Essex, 28 October 2016.
Summary:
The pilot made a normal approach to Runway 21L at Stapleford, a predominantly grass runway 1,077 m long with a 600 m long, but less than half-width, asphalt insert situated at the north-east end of the runway. The wind was from 260° at 9 kt and the runway condition was dry.
The pilot reported that touchdown on the asphalt surface was normal but, during the landing roll, the aircraft began to drift slowly to the left side of the asphalt. He did not attempt to arrest this drift, thinking that, as the aircraft was slowing normally, he would leave the paved surface at a low speed. However, as the aircraft crossed onto the grass surface, the nose landing gear fractured and the propeller struck the ground. The pilot suffered no injuries during the accident and was able to exit the aircraft normally.
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