What happened
During an FAA certification test flight at Yuma International Airport in Yuma, Arizona, an aircraft was conducting maneuvers to demonstrate compliance with specific safety regulations. The mission required the crew to perform a simulated landing while operating with non-functional hydraulic systems.
As the aircraft approached runway 21R, the pilot engaged thrust reversers and applied reverse thrust prior to the nosewheel making contact with the pavement. Upon touchdown, the aircraft began to yaw significantly. This directional instability continued after the nosewheel settled, leading to a ground loop toward the right side of the runway. The aircraft subsequently slid off the right edge of the runway, coming to a stop approximately 6,700 feet past the landing threshold.
There were no passengers on board during this flight, only the three crew members. While the aircraft sustained substantial damage and was eventually determined to be beyond repair, the three crew members sustained slight injuries. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were clear and the runway surface was dry.
Findings
Investigations into the event identified that the procedures established for the certification test flight were inadequate. Additionally, the pilot failed to properly manage thrust levels once the initial loss of directional control had occurred.