On November 9, 1996, a Beech A36 (registration N8077M) was involved in an aviation accident near Walnut Cove, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot/owner (PIC) to either go around while there was sufficient runway remaining or apply adequate braking to stop the aircraft before overrunning the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an instructional flight under the American Bonanza Society Pilot Proficiency Program, a simulated engine failure preceded a runway overrun and collision with a ditch after the aircraft touched down midway on a 2,725-foot runway.
Incident Overview
A pilot/owner and a certified flight instructor (CFI) were conducting an instructional flight as part of the American Bonanza Society Pilot Proficiency Program. The aircraft owner was designated as pilot-in-command (PIC), while the CFI served as a check pilot. During the approach to the airport, a simulated engine failure was performed.
Sequence of Events
The PIC was flying the aircraft and crossed the threshold at a speed between 90 and 100 knots. The aircraft touched down approximately midway on the runway, which measured 2,725 feet in length. The pilot applied moderate braking upon landing. By the time the check pilot responded with heavy braking, the aircraft had overrun the runway and subsequently collided with a ditch.