What happened
While returning to the pilot's home base, the aircraft entered the traffic pattern for runway 26, which has a length exceeding 4,400 feet. During the approach, the pilot bypassed the uncontrolled airfield before establishing the pattern. Upon touchdown, the aircraft landed far down the runway and failed to stop before the departure end. The resulting excursion led to a collision with a pole, which subsequently caused the aircraft to catch fire.
Findings
- The pilot noted that the windsock appeared parallel to the runway centerline.
- The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft was landing with a tailwind of approximately 20 to 25 knots.
- All three occupants managed to exit the aircraft and sustained only minor injuries.