Accident Details
A pilot reported that approach control cleared the flight for a visual approach to runway 18 at Murfreesboro Municipal Airport. The pilot received the Airport Terminal Information System (ATIS) broadcast, which indicated winds from 240 degrees at 3 knots and a wet runway.
Entering the traffic pattern, the pilot completed the before-landing checklist, lowered the landing gear, and extended the approach flaps on base leg. Turning onto final approach, the pilot lowered the flaps fully and activated the anti-skid system. The airplane touched down within the first third of the runway.
According to the pilot, a weather front was approaching the airport. Upon touchdown, the wind shifted and heavy rain began. The airplane started hydroplaning at midfield. The pilot determined there was insufficient runway remaining to initiate a go-around.
The airplane departed the runway sideways, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the airplane came to a stop. The pilot shut down the engine, and he and the six passengers exited the airplane.
Post-accident inspection revealed that the left flap had separated from the airframe and the left wing sustained structural damage. The pilot told the NTSB investigator-in-charge that he lost directional control as the airplane hydroplaned. He also stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane before the accident.