Aircraft Overruns Runway Following High-Speed Approach

Casualties unknown • ST Johns, AZ, US

An aircraft ran off the end of a runway after a high-speed approach and subsequent touchdown in the middle third of the available pavement.

What happened

During the final approach, the pilot increased the approach speed by 15 knots to account for a crosswind and significant gust spread. Using the VASI system as a reference for the glide path, the pilot continued the descent toward the runway.

Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced and floated along the runway surface. The second touchdown occurred within the middle one-third of the 5,323-foot runway. At this stage, the pilot did not observe the amount of remaining runway available for deceleration. After passing a slight rise in the terrain, the pilot identified the departure end of the runway and determined there was insufficient runway to either stop the aircraft or perform a go-around. Consequently, the airplane ran off the end of the runway.

At the time of the event, the AWOS reported winds from 260 degrees at 33 knots, with gusts reaching 45 knots.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to realize the remaining runway length after a high-speed approach and subsequent float led to an overrun.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-04-11 Cessna 402C accident near ST Johns, AZ?

An aircraft ran off the end of a runway after a high-speed approach and subsequent touchdown in the middle third of the available pavement.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-04-11 involved a Cessna 402C, registration N172VB, at ST Johns, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to realize the remaining runway length after a high-speed approach and subsequent float led to an overrun.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05625. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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