What happened
During an approach to Dare County Regional Airport (MQI) in Manteable, North Carolina, the flight crew encountered deteriorating weather conditions, including heavy rain, a low ceiling of 400 feet, and visibility of 1.5 miles. The crew initially planned a GPS approach to runway 23 with a subsequent circle-to-land maneuver for runway 5. During the approach, the aircraft initially maintained an airspeed exceeding the flap operating range, requiring the pilot to slow the plane before the flaps could be extended.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot-in-command noted the plane was approximately 300 feet above the runway. Although the copilot mentally prepared for a go-around, no formal command was issued by either pilot. The aircraft eventually touched down on the wet runway at a speed of 127 knots, which was 23 knots above the reference speed (Vref). The touchdown occurred approximately 1,205 feet beyond the approach end of the 4,305-foot runway. Despite the immediate application of brakes, thrust reversers, and speed brakes, the aircraft failed to stop within the remaining runway length and exited the end of the pavement at approximately 40 knots.
Findings
- The aircraft touched down at an excessive airspeed of 23 knots above Vref.
- The landing took place on a wet runway, which significantly increases the required stopping distance compared to dry conditions.
- While a small tailwind component was present, the primary factor in the overrun was the high touchdown speed.
- The crew did not execute a go-around despite the aircraft being high on the approach.