Synopsis
A pilot flying a single-engine airplane encountered a runway excursion after hydroplaning during landing at an airport. The event occurred around 1130 local time. The airplane touched down on a wet runway, began hydroplaning approximately 1,000 feet before the end, and rolled past the departure end. The nose landing gear struck a depression, causing it to twist, and the forward pressure bulkhead was found cracked afterward. No mechanical issues were reported.
Flight Details
The pilot was executing a GPS approach to runway 28. During the approach, he maintained 120 knots with 20 degrees of flaps. He extended full flaps about 1 mile from the runway and reduced speed to 100 knots, then crossed the threshold at 80 knots. Touchdown occurred at about 75 knots. The pilot applied brakes gently on touchdown, stating he was unable to apply hard braking.
Weather
Before the approach, the pilot checked the wind at a nearby airport, reported as 20 knots with gusts to 25 knots. The onboard GPS receiver indicated wind from 010 degrees at 12 knots. The pilot observed that the windsock at the destination was not fully extended. The destination airport had an automated weather observing system (AWOS). Twelve observations near the accident time (1130 local, 1630 UTC) showed wind from 230 degrees at 8 knots with gusts to 18 knots.
Accident Sequence
After touching down on the wet runway, the airplane began hydroplaning about 1,000 feet before the end of the runway. The pilot was unable to stop the airplane, and it continued past the departure end of the runway. The nose landing gear then entered a small depression, causing it to twist. The forward pressure bulkhead was later found to be cracked.
Post-Accident Examination
The pilot reported no mechanical failure or malfunction. The examination revealed the nose landing gear was twisted and the forward pressure bulkhead had a crack. No other damage was specified.