Approach and Landing
The cargo flight was cleared for a visual approach to runway 13, which was 5,000 feet long and 150 feet wide, surfaced with asphalt. Based on the estimated landing weight, the reference speed (Vref) was estimated at 116 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS). Air traffic control radar data showed that the aircraft maintained a ground speed above 190 knots on final approach, including over the touchdown zone. Witnesses at the airport observed the airplane flying very fast and touching down long.
Braking and Runway Overrun
The first evidence of braking was noted 1,247 feet from the departure end of the runway. Braking signatures on the asphalt and off the pavement were consistent with an operational anti-skid system. The airplane overran the departure end of runway 13, impacted the airport perimeter fence, crossed a roadway, struck another fence, and collided with two trees in a cemetery. The airplane was found to be within weight and balance limits for all phases of the flight.
Crew and Flight Information
Both crewmembers were familiar with the airport. The captain had 4,689 hours of flight experience; the first officer had 2,873 hours. The flight was 20 minutes ahead of its scheduled arrival time. The installed cockpit voice recorder was found not to be functional.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause, as stated by the investigation, was the pilot's misjudged distance and speed during the approach to landing, and his failure to obtain the proper touchdown point resulting in an overrun. A contributing factor was the pilot's failure to abort the landing.