What happened
During the landing phase of the flight, the aircraft overran the end of the runway. While the pilot had assessed the wind conditions while flying over the runway to join the circuit for runway 36, official weather data from the Bureau of Meteorology indicated a southerly wind was present at the time of touchdown. The aircraft likely experienced a tailwind component during the landing, which increased the ground speed at the moment of touchdown and contributed to the overrun.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the discrepancy between the pilot's wind assessment and the recorded meteorological data. Investigators were unable to determine whether the wind direction had shifted momentarily during the circuit or if the windsock was misread by the pilot. Additionally, the investigation examined the aircraft's position on the runway. It was noted that the pilot landed the aircraft adjacent to the taxiway, a decision that effectively shortened the available distance for braking.
Findings
- The aircraft likely landed with a tailwind component, resulting in a higher ground speed.
- The landing position, situated near the taxiway, reduced the available stopping distance.
- Utilizing the full length of the runway strip would likely have provided sufficient distance to stop the aircraft safely.