Runway Excursion Involving Aircraft During Final Approach

No fatalities • Carlsbad-McClellan-Palomar, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overshot the runway during its final approach, resulting in a runway excursion and structural damage to the landing gear and wings.

What happened

During the final approach phase of the flight, the flight crew noted that the aircraft was positioned above the established glideslope. According to statements provided by the pilot and copilot, the aircraft type touched down approximately 1,5-00 feet from the end of the 4,700-foot runway.

Upon touchdown, the pilot attempted to decelerate the plane by applying the brakes; however, the aircraft failed to stop within the remaining runway distance. The plane subsequently exited the runway perimeter and traveled across uneven and rugged terrain. During this excursion, the main landing gear suffered a structural failure, shearing off and subsequently striking both wings. The sequence ended when the aircraft came to a complete rest inside a gully.

Observations from ground witnesses and personnel located in the air traffic control tower provided a different perspective on the approach, noting that the aircraft appeared to be traveling at a high speed and was positioned high above the glide path. These witnesses suggested the touchdown point may have occurred near the middle of the runway or even further down the strip.

Findings

  • The aircraft was flying at a speed and altitude that exceeded the standard glideslope parameters.
  • The aircraft was unable to stop on the runway after the pilot applied braking pressure.
  • The excursion resulted in significant structural damage, specifically the separation of the main landing gear and damage to the wing structures.

Probable cause

The aircraft was flying too high and too fast on final approach, leading to a touchdown point too far down the runway to allow for a safe stop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-12-23 Learjet 25 accident near Carlsbad-McClellan-Palomar, United States of America?

An aircraft overshot the runway during its final approach, resulting in a runway excursion and structural damage to the landing gear and wings.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-12-23 Learjet 25 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-12-23 involved a Learjet 25, registration N44PA, operated by Flight Management, at Carlsbad-McClellan-Palomar, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was flying too high and too fast on final approach, leading to a touchdown point too far down the runway to allow for a safe stop.

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