Runway Overrun During Unstable Approach

No fatalities • Ridgeland, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran its runway and came to rest in marshy terrain following an unstable approach characterized by excessive speed and sink rate.

What happened

Following a routine positioning flight, the crew proceeded to their destination airport. During the descent, the pilot in command expressed a desire to reach the destination ahead of another aircraft, comparing the flight to a race. This resulted in the overspeed warning activating several times. The crew opted for a straight-in visual approach, but the aircraft remained high and fast throughout the final approach, with the second-in-command noting the high airspeed. Despite receiving repeated "sink rate" and "pull up" warnings from the cockpit voice recorder, the crew did not execute a go-around.

The aircraft touched down approximately 1,000 feet down the 4,200-foot runway. While the pilot reported that the wheel brakes, thrust reversers, and ground air brakes failed to function, video evidence confirmed that the thrust reversers did deploy. Tire marks indicated that wheel braking was active, and the antiskid system engaged during the final portion of the roll. However, the ground air brakes did not deploy. The aircraft eventually exited the runway and stopped roughly 400 feet past the departure end in a marshy area, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.

Findings

Investigators identified several contributing factors to the accident. The landing was performed with a quartering tailwind of 10 to 15 knots, which exceeded the manufacturer's maximum limit of 10 knots. Additionally, the approach was unstable, and the crew failed to initiate a go-around despite clear warnings. While the investigation looked into the failure of the ground air brakes, testing of the throttle lever microswitches was inconclusive. It was noted that the pilot's desire to complete the flight quickly likely influenced the decision-making process.

Probable cause

The crew continued an unstable approach characterized by excessive speed and sink rate despite multiple warnings, compounded by a tailwind that exceeded operational limits.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-05-05 Gulfstream G150 accident near Ridgeland, United States of America?

An aircraft overran its runway and came to rest in marshy terrain following an unstable approach characterized by excessive speed and sink rate.

Were there any fatalities in the 2021-05-05 Gulfstream G150 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-05-05 involved a Gulfstream G150, registration N22ST, operated by Snider Fleet Solution, at Ridgeland, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew continued an unstable approach characterized by excessive speed and sink rate despite multiple warnings, compounded by a tailwind that exceeded operational limits.

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