Aircraft impact following high-speed landing and delayed go-around

4 fatalities • Carlsbad, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a localizer antenna platform and a commercial building after a high-speed landing on runway 24 resulted in a late go-around attempt.

What happened

While operating under visual flight rules, the flightcrew transitioned from an instrument landing system approach to a visual approach for runway 24. Although wind conditions suggested a landing on the opposite runway would be more favorable, the pilot opted to land on runway 24, which resulted in a six-knot tailwind. During the final approach, the pilot maintained an airspeed roughly 30 knots above the appropriate speed for the aircraft's weight. This caused the aircraft to touch down approximately 1,500 feet further down the runway than usual, at a significantly higher speed.

Following the touchdown, the pilot did not initiate a go-around until prompted by the first officer. Although the aircraft became airborne again before exiting the paved overrun, it struck a localizer antenna platform located roughly 304 feet beyond the runway end. The aircraft continued to fly over descending terrain for approximately 400 feet before ultimately colliding with the ground and a commercial storage building. There were 0 fatalities reported in the provided text, though the impact involved a collision with terrain and structures.

Findings

Investigation into the flight dynamics revealed that the pilot's approach speed was significantly higher than required for the aircraft's weight, contributing to a long and fast landing. Additionally, the delayed initiation of the go-around was a critical factor in the sequence of events. While the captain had a history of type 2 diabetes that was not disclosed to the FAA, investigators could not definitively conclude if his medical condition or medication played a role in the accident. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was being operated under Part 91 for business purposes, though there were uncorroborated claims regarding the payment of an hourly fee to the pilot.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by a high-speed landing on runway 24 with a tailwind and a failure to promptly initiate a go-around.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-01-24 Cessna 560 Citation V accident near Carlsbad, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed into a localizer antenna platform and a commercial building after a high-speed landing on runway 24 resulted in a late go-around attempt.

Were there any fatalities in the 2006-01-24 Cessna 560 Citation V accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-01-24 involved a Cessna 560 Citation V, registration N86CE, operated by Goship Air, at Carlsbad, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by a high-speed landing on runway 24 with a tailwind and a failure to promptly initiate a go-around.

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