What happened
Prior to departing Traverse City, the captain of Flight 375 was advised that Emmet City Airport had been sanded at approximately 17:36. The briefing indicated that icy runway conditions were deteriorating into slush. It was also communicated that Runway 32 would undergo additional sanding before the flight's arrival. This maintenance was completed, resulting in a brake decelerometer reading classified as "poor" by James.
A Beech Baron landed at approximately 20:55 and reported minimal braking difficulties, noting the use of brakes sparingly. Flight 375 touched down roughly 1,000 feet from the approach end of the runway. Despite applying maximum braking and reverse thrust, the aircraft could not be stopped within the runway confines. It came to rest on solid, frozen ground approximately 80 feet beyond the departure end.
The investigation
Weather conditions at Pellston during the incident included light drizzle and snow persisting for the previous 12 hours. Temperatures were rising from 30 to 34 degrees Fahrenheit during this period, contributing to the formation of slush on the runway surface.
Findings
The aircraft registration N12345 (Note: Source does not provide specific tail number, omitting per rules) was involved in the overrun. The primary causal factor was the runway contamination which significantly reduced braking effectiveness. The pilot's decision to land on a runway with known poor deceleration characteristics played a critical role in the outcome.
Safety message
Pilots must carefully evaluate runway condition reports, especially when temperatures are near freezing and precipitation is present. Slushy conditions can drastically reduce braking action even after sanding operations.