What happened
On March 19, 2013, a Beechcraft 58 Baron, registration N458PL, was conducting a training flight involving short-field landing practice. The flight originated from Lognes-Emerainville, destined for the Plessis-Belleville aerodrome. Upon approaching runway 25, an observer noted the aircraft's wheels touching the runway surface. During the subsequent landing roll, the left main gear tire burst. This failure caused the aircraft to undergo a longitudinal excursion, eventually coming to a stop approximately 20 meters beyond the end of the 700-meter runway.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the runway surface, and the pilot's actions. Investigators found no mechanical anomalies on the wreckage capable of causing the incident. The runway surface was noted to have moss and lichen contamination on the lateral edges of the paved area, which had not been cleared since before 2011. This contamination can reduce braking effectiveness.
Data from the landing roll showed a rubber skid mark extending 185 meters, ending at the threshold of runway 07. Based on the landing weight of 2,175 kg and the prevailing 7-knot headwind, the required landing distance according to the flight manual was approximately 560 meters. The pilot indicated that the braking application was likely late and abrupt.
Findings
- The primary cause of the runway excursion was inappropriate braking technique during the landing roll.
- The presence of moss and lichen on the runway surface likely contributed to the loss of control.
- The aircraft sustained heavy damage during the event.