Incident Summary
On 27 July 2017 at 1800 UTC, a Cessna 402C (registration N618CA) operating a commercial air transport passenger flight experienced a serious incident during takeoff from Runway 07 at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport in the British Virgin Islands. The aircraft came to a stop approximately 10 ft beyond the end of the paved runway surface, in the grass. No injuries to the crew or passengers were reported, and no damage to the aircraft occurred.
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft, a Cessna 402C, was manufactured in 1981 and powered by two Continental TSIO-520 SER piston engines. The sole commander held an Airline Transport Pilot’s Licence, was 26 years old, and had accumulated 2,685 total flying hours, of which 1,928 were on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 297 hours, and in the last 28 days, 98 hours. Seven passengers were on board.
Weather and Takeoff
The pilot reported weather conditions as “hot and humid” with a temperature of 31°C, good visibility, scattered clouds at 1,900 ft, and wind from 130° at 5 kt. Due to the limited length of Runway 07 combined with the weather, the pilot elected to perform a short field takeoff to minimize the ground roll.
Abort and Outcome
At approximately 86 KIAS, the pilot observed significant bird activity and decided to abort the takeoff. The aircraft decelerated and came to a stop in the grass beyond the runway end, with no further consequences.