Runway overrun at Akron-Canton Airport

No fatalities • Akron-Canton, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran the runway at Akron-Canton Airport during a night approach in marginal weather, resulting in several injuries.

What happened

During a nighttime approach to Akron-Canton Airport under marginal weather conditions, the flight crew initiated an approach characterized by excessive altitude and glide slope deviation. The aircraft maintained an approach speed that was too high for the prevailing conditions. Upon touchdown on runway 01, which was wet at the time, the plane failed to decelerate sufficiently within the available runway length. The aircraft traveled approximately 2,400 feet past the intended touchdown point before overrunning the end of the runway and coming to a stop.

All 26 occupants were successfully evacuated from the aircraft following the excursion. While there were no fatalities, the incident resulted in 15 injuries. The aircraft sustained damage that was determined to be beyond repair.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements to the runway excursion. A primary factor was the captain's choice to proceed with the landing despite maintaining an excessive airspeed and a touchdown point too far down the runway to allow for safe stopping on the wet surface.

Specific contributing factors included:

  • A lack of awareness regarding the actual airspeed during the final stages of the approach
  • An incorrect reading or indication from the speed command indicator
  • Hydroplaning occurring on the wet runway surface

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to land at an excessive speed too far down a wet runway prevented the aircraft from stopping safely.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-11-27 Douglas DC-9 accident near Akron-Canton, United States of America?

An aircraft overran the runway at Akron-Canton Airport during a night approach in marginal weather, resulting in several injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-11-27 Douglas DC-9 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-11-27 involved a Douglas DC-9, registration N8967E, operated by Eastern Airlines, at Akron-Canton, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to land at an excessive speed too far down a wet runway prevented the aircraft from stopping safely.

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