What happened
On 23 September 2020, a Cessna C208B Super Cargomaster, registration N967FE, was conducting a commercial cargo flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Terrance B Lettsome International Airport in the British Virgin Islands. During the arrival, the pilot initially aborted an approach due to deteriorating weather conditions.
Upon attempting a second visual approach to Runway 25, the aircraft entered a rain shower, causing the pilot to lose sight of the runway and initiate a go-around. The pilot reported that despite applying full power, the aircraft failed to climb, leading to a sudden descent. The aircraft subsequently made a hard landing approximately 795 m beyond the runway threshold. During the landing roll, the aircraft's right tyre burst, and the baggage pod made contact with the runway surface. The aircraft eventually veered off the paved surface onto the grass. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation focused on three potential contributing factors: an engine anomaly, the presence of windshear, and the stability of the approach. While the pilot reported a lack of climb capability, flight data from the engine monitoring system showed that the engine was operating below the expected high idle speed during the final moments of the flight. However, testing of the engine components, including the fuel control unit, revealed no definitive mechanical faults that would have prevented acceleration.
Regarding meteorological conditions, although thunderstorms were active in the region, aircraft data showed no significant airspeed fluctuations that would indicate the presence of windshear. The investigation also noted that the pilot's reported position and intentions to air traffic control were inaccurate, suggesting a high level of task saturation.
Findings
- The approach was unstable, characterized by a high rate of descent and speeds significantly exceeding the target approach parameters.
- The pilot was likely experiencing high workload due to the combination of challenging weather conditions and the unstable approach profile.
- The engine speed decreased below the required high idle setting shortly before touchdown, though no permanent mechanical failure was identified.
- The aircraft's approach did not adhere to the operator's established stable approach criteria.