What happened
During the final stages of an approach, the pilot noted that the descent profile was steeper than usual. Although corrective actions were attempted, flight data confirmed the aircraft arrived at the runway threshold with excessive altitude and speed. The aircraft subsequently touched down deep into the runway at a groundspeed of 77 kt. Because the airspeed was slightly below the reference speed of 70 kt, a tailwind component was present during the landing.
As the aircraft decelerated, the brakes were applied with enough force to lock the wheels, leaving skid marks on the runway. This lack of modulated braking, combined with the high touchdown point and the tailwind, resulted in insufficient distance to stop the aircraft before it exited the runway and entered the water.
The investigation
The ATSB examined several factors regarding the pilot's decision-making and the aircraft's configuration. Investigators looked into whether the cockpit seating position influenced the pilot's perspective of the approach, but concluded this was unlikely to be a primary factor since the pilot had already identified the steep profile. The investigation also ruled out mechanical issues, such as low hydraulic fluid in the brake master cylinder, as causes for reduced braking capacity.
Regarding the decision not to abort the landing, the pilot reported considering a go-around both while correcting the approach profile and upon touchdown. However, the pilot opted to continue because they feared a stall over the water, noting that the airspeed had dropped below the 70 kt takeoff speed.
Findings
- The aircraft was unstable during the approach and landed halfway down the runway with inadequate remaining distance to stop.
- The pilot failed to execute a go-around as mandated by the operator's procedures when an unstable approach was identified.
- There was evidence that the pilot may have been experiencing mild to moderate acute fatigue, stemming from restricted sleep in the preceding 24 to 48 hours and a lack of food on the morning of the event.