What happened
On October 16, 2016, at approximately 13:11 UTC, a Beechcraft B 36TC was performing a landing at St. Johann/Tirol (LOIJ) in Austria. The flight had originated from Manching, Germany, and was carrying the pilot and two passengers.
During the final approach, the pilot realized that the aircraft was approaching at an excessive speed and at an altitude too high to ensure a safe touchdown. At a height of approximately 10 feet above the ground, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver by applying full manifold pressure. During this transition, the left wing dropped, and the stall warning was briefly heard. The aircraft continued to track parallel to the runway but slightly offset to the left. Due to the late initiation of the maneuver, the aircraft lacked sufficient remaining runway to stop, eventually colliding with the terrain approximately 100 meters beyond the end of the asphalt runway.
The investigation
The Austrian Federal Safety Investigation Board (SUB) examined the aircraft, the flight records, and the pilot's actions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance, airworthiness, and weight and balance calculations were all within legal limits. The pilot held valid licenses and medical certification. Investigators also determined that the weather conditions at the time of the accident were suitable for VFR flight and did not contribute to the event. The investigation focused on the flight parameters during the final approach and the timing of the pilot's decision to abort the landing.
Findings
- The final approach was conducted at a speed exceeding the limits specified in the aircraft flight manual.
- The pilot initiated the go-around maneuver too late to prevent the aircraft from overrunning the runway.