What happened
During a return flight to Shemya following the completion of a reconnaissance mission, the aircraft experienced a loss of directional control and braking effectiveness. Upon making contact with the runway, which was covered in ice, the crew encountered significant challenges attempting to decelerate the plane within the available runway length.
As a result of the slippery conditions, the aircraft type overran the end of the landing strip and came to a stop several dozen yards beyond the pavement. Although the impact and excursion caused damage that rendered the aircraft a total loss, all 18 occupants were able to exit the plane without injury.
Findings
- The presence of ice on the runway surface significantly reduced braking performance.
- The primary factor in the accident was the inability to stop the aircraft within the remaining distance of the runway due to the icy conditions.