On January 22, 1998, a Beechcraft 90 King Air (registration N911KA) operated by Global Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Selmer, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of control on the ground, due to hydroplaning, and a collision with trees. A factor was the rain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An airplane hydroplaned on landing in rain, departed the runway, and struck trees, damaging wings and collapsing landing gear.
Incident Overview
According to the pilot, the airplane began hydroplaning upon landing in heavy rain. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and struck trees, resulting in damage to both wings and collapse of the landing gear. A witness reported that the airplane touched down in moderate rain.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that during landing in heavy rain, the airplane experienced hydroplaning, leading to a loss of directional control. The airplane exited the left side of the runway and impacted trees. The impact damaged both wings and caused the landing gear to collapse. A witness observed the touchdown occurring in moderate rain conditions.
Probable Cause
The probable cause was determined to be a loss of control on the ground due to hydroplaning and a collision with trees. A contributing factor was the rain.
