Casualties unknown

1982-02-20: Boeing B-727-200 (XAMEJ) — Mexicana Airlines — Harlingen, TX

Harlingen, TX, US

On February 20, 1982, a Boeing B-727-200 (registration XAMEJ) operated by Mexicana Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Harlingen, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a heavy thunderstorm, an aircraft touched down long and fast on Runway 17R, hydroplaned the last 2,000 feet, and ran 300 feet off the end. The FDR showed touchdown at 154 knots IAS with an 8-knot tailwind.

Incident Overview

According to the FAA control tower operator, the aircraft landed long and fast while a heavy thunderstorm was in progress. The subsequent investigation revealed that the aircraft touched down approximately midway down Runway 17R, which has a length of 8,300 feet.

Runway Excursion and Hydroplaning

Evidence indicated that the aircraft hydroplaned for the last 2,000 feet of the runway before running off the end by an additional 300 feet. The runway overrun occurred after the aircraft exited the paved surface.

Flight Data Recorder Information

A readout of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) showed that the aircraft touched down at an indicated airspeed of 154 knots, which was 24 knots faster than the targeted touchdown speed. Additionally, there was an 8-knot tailwind component at the time of landing.

Investigation Findings

The investigation did not specify any other contributing factors beyond the long and fast landing during adverse weather conditions. No determination of probable cause was provided in the available source material.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02151. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.