What happened
Prior to the arrival, heavy rain had occurred, though it was not raining during the event. The first officer performed the landing, and the captain assumed control of the aircraft as it slowed. After exiting runway 36R at taxiway S4, the local controller cleared the flight to cross runway 36C at Kilo. During the taxi, the captain inquired about the location of Kilo, and the first officer indicated it was to their right.
As the aircraft crossed 36C and entered the junction of taxiways Kilo, Charlie, and Charlie 5, the captain observed gate C16 on the left side. Upon seeing a marshaller, the captain turned left toward the gate. The flight crew did not realize the aircraft had departed the taxiway until the nose landing gear struck a concrete drainage ditch.
The investigation
An FAA inspector examined the accident site and found the aircraft located in the grass median off the right side of taxiway Charlie, approximately 250 feet south of taxiway Kilo. The inspection revealed that the nose landing gear assembly had collapsed and the forward pressure bulkhead was punctured.
According to the FAA Southern Region Airport Safety and Certification Division, all taxiway signs and lights were operational and functioning properly. Furthermore, the taxiway edge markings and centerline were correct and in accordance with the approved sign plan and Airport Certification Manual.