Runway Excursion Following High-Speed Landing

Casualties unknown • West Chester, PA, US

An aircraft overran the end of an asphalt runway and descended down an embankment after the pilot experienced high ground speeds during landing.

What happened

The aircraft was on approach to a 3,007-foot long, asphalt runway. While flying a left downwind for runway 9, the pilot observed that the windsock indicated a strong wind originating from 360 degrees.

According to the pilot, the airplane touched down near the end of the first third of the runway. Upon touchdown, the pilot noted that the ground speed was high. During this time, the pilot observed the windsock indicating a wind direction from 270 degrees. The aircraft continued down the runway, and the pilot was unable to stop the plane before it exited the end of the runway, traveled down an embankment, and crossed a road.

The airport manager noted that the airplane appeared to be traveling at a high speed when it reached the halfway point of the runway. At the time of the accident, the airport manager stated the windsock indicated a wind from the north. Winds reported at an airport located approximately 17 miles southeast of the accident site were from 350 degrees at 21 knots, with gusts reaching 26 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-10-29 Piper PA23-250 accident near West Chester, PA?

An aircraft overran the end of an asphalt runway and descended down an embankment after the pilot experienced high ground speeds during landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-10-29 involved a Piper PA23-250, registration N9190W, operated by Leonard C. Redmond Iii, at West Chester, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to obtain/maintain the proper airspeed during the landing, and failure to perform a go-around. A factor in the accident was the crosswind conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11339. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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