On April 28, 1991, a Grumman AA5B (registration N20NA) operated by Navsea Flying Club, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near College Park, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and stop the aircraft due to hydroplaning on a wet runway during landing in rainy weather. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot attempted to land at an airport during a thunderstorm with reduced visibility. Braking was ineffective due to hydroplaning, causing the aircraft to overrun the runway and collide with a ravine.
What happened
The pilot was operating a local flight when he observed a thunderstorm approaching the area. In response to the deteriorating weather conditions, which included rain and lowered visibility, the pilot decided to return to the airport. He executed a landing on runway 15. However, upon application of the brakes, the aircraft began to hydroplane. The pilot was unable to stop the aircraft before it left the paved surface. The aircraft continued forward and collided with a ravine located approximately 400 feet beyond the end of the runway.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was hydroplaning, which prevented effective braking during the landing rollout. The weather conditions, specifically rain and reduced visibility associated with the thunderstorm, created a wet runway surface that facilitated this loss of traction.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and stop the aircraft due to hydroplaning on a wet runway during landing in rainy weather.
What happened in the 28 Apr 1991 Grumman AA5B accident near College Park, MD?
The pilot attempted to land at an airport during a thunderstorm with reduced visibility. Braking was ineffective due to hydroplaning, causing the aircraft to overrun the runway and collide with a ravine.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Apr 1991 involved a Grumman AA5B, registration N20NA, operated by Navsea Flying Club, Inc., at College Park, MD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and stop the aircraft due to hydroplaning on a wet runway during landing in rainy weather.
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