What happened
The pilot reported that he had misidentified the Automated Terminal Information Service (ATIS) wind report. He stated that he mistook winds reported as 020 degrees at 21 knots for winds of 210 degrees at 20 knots. Based on this incorrect information, he continued with a VOR runway 14 approach and proceeded to land on runway 14.
Upon touchdown, there was standing water present on the runway surface. The aircraft hydroplaned due to the wet conditions combined with the tailwind component. It ran off the end of the runway, causing the nose gear to sink into the mud and collapse.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's interpretation of the ATIS broadcast and the physical dynamics of the landing. The primary finding was the discrepancy between the reported wind direction and the pilot's perception. The presence of standing water on the runway surface contributed to the hydroplaning event.
Findings
- The pilot misidentified the ATIS wind report, confusing a headwind component with a tailwind component.
- Hydroplaning occurred due to standing water on the runway and the resulting tailwind landing.
- The aircraft ran off the end of the runway, leading to structural damage to the nose gear.
Safety message
Pilots must carefully verify wind direction and speed from ATIS or other sources before final approach. Landing with an unanticipated tailwind, especially on a wet runway, significantly increases the risk of hydroplaning and runway overruns.