Turbojet Runway Overrun and Post-Impact Fire (N397QS)

Approach and Touchdown During a visual approach to a runway measuring 3,975 feet in length and 50 feet in width, a turbojet aircraft touched down approximately 2,100 feet beyond the landing threshold. The pilot in command, who had 5,600 hours of flight experience, reported that the approach speed and descent rate were normal. The aircraft was on short final over the trees at the desired speed before descending to the runway at idle power. During the descent, the pilot noticed a 16-knot increase in speed above the reference speed. The pilot elected to continue the approach because the aircraft was close to the runway and believed there was extra landing distance available beyond what was required. The aircraft floated beyond the desired touchdown point, at which point the pilots were committed to stopping the aircraft. As the aircraft passed the last third of the runway, it turned to the right without input from the pilots, overran the departure end, and collided with trees. After leaving the runway, the pilot stowed the thrust reversers and attempted to shut down the engines. Due to the violent ride, the pilot managed to shut down one engine. A post-impact fire consumed the aircraft after the crew assisted in evacuating the occupants. No mechanical or maintenance anomalies were discovered with the aircraft. According to the flight manual, based on 29.74 inches HG, 1,808 PA, 30 degrees Celsius, zero wind, and an aircraft landing weight of 14,500 lbs, the calculated total stopping distance (air and ground distance) at reference speed (Vref) was estimated at 2,955 feet. The flight manual's total distance calculation is based on full flaps, speed brakes after touchdown, Vref at 50 feet over the runway threshold, idle thrust when crossing the threshold, and no thrust reverse.