Runway excursion involving aircraft on wet runway

No fatalities • Southend-on-Sea, United Kingdom • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a loss of control during landing on a wet runway, resulting in an excursion and structural breakup, though all occupants escaped without injury.

What happened

During the landing phase on runway 06, the flight crew performed the arrival procedure on a surface that was notably wet. The aircraft approached the runway at an excessive speed for the conditions present. Upon making contact with the pavement, the captain initiated braking maneuvers; however, the pilot experienced a loss of directional control, which was attributed to a perceived aquaplaning event.

Following the loss of control, the aircraft veered toward the right side of the runway. The momentum carried the plane off the paved surface and down an embankment. The impact with the terrain caused the airframe to break into multiple sections. Despite the significant damage to the aircraft, all 83 occupants were successfully evacuated from the wreckage without any reported fatalities or injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified that the primary reason for the excursion was the excessive approach speed relative to the available landing distance. Additionally, investigators noted that braking performance was compromised because the application of the hand-brake caused the main wheels to become mechanically locked.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from approaching the runway at a speed too high for the available landing distance, compounded by reduced braking effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1968-05-04 Vickers Viscount accident near Southend-on-Sea, United Kingdom?

An aircraft experienced a loss of control during landing on a wet runway, resulting in an excursion and structural breakup, though all occupants escaped without injury.

Were there any fatalities in the 1968-05-04 Vickers Viscount accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1968-05-04 involved a Vickers Viscount, registration G-APPU, operated by Channel Airways, at Southend-on-Sea, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident resulted from approaching the runway at a speed too high for the available landing distance, compounded by reduced braking effectiveness.

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