What happened
During an approach to the runway, the flight crew initially attempted a GPS-based approach to runway 2 but transitioned to a missed approach after reaching minimum altitudes. During the subsequent approach, the crew monitored automated weather reports which indicated visibility of only 0.5 miles due to light snow, significantly below the required 1-mile minimum for the straight-in approach. Despite the low visibility, the aircraft descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA).
As the aircraft approached the ground, the crew noted the runway was visible, but the ground proximity warning system (GPWS) issued multiple "sink rate" alerts. The aircraft touched down on the runway, which was covered in approximately 2 to 3 inches of slush. Although the pilot applied full reverse thrust and braking, the aircraft failed to decelerate sufficiently. The plane exited the end of the runway, struck a chain-link fence, and moved into downsloping, uneven terrain. The impact caused the landing gear to collapse before the aircraft finally came to a stop.
Additionally, the first officer reported that attempts to activate the pilot-activated runway lights were unsuccessful during both approach attempts.
Findings
- The flight crew operated the aircraft below the authorized MDA while visibility was below the prescribed minimums.
- The crew failed to execute a missed approach despite the visibility being 0.5 miles when 1 mile was required.
- The aircraft's rate of descent exceeded normal parameters, as evidenced by the GPWS "sink rate" warnings.
- The presence of slush on the runway contributed to the inability to stop the aircraft within the runway limits.