The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating why a HondaJet HA-420 overran a wet runway at Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, ultimately ending up submerged in water. Preliminary findings reveal discrepancies between the pilot’s landing distance calculations and actual runway conditions during the incident.
Discrepancy in Landing Calculations
The pilot had relied on the flight management system, which estimated a required landing distance of approximately 4,200 feet for Runway 5. However, revised wet runway performance data in the aircraft’s flight manual supplement indicated a needed distance of 5,910 feet—nearly 1,700 feet longer than calculated. The runway’s total available landing area measured 5,320 feet, with additional overrun space beyond.
Approach and Touchdown Conditions
Despite recent heavy rainfall, the pilot reported no visible standing water. The HondaJet crossed the threshold at 117-118 knots, slightly faster than the planned 113-knot reference speed due to crosswinds. It touched down near the 1,000-foot markers but failed to decelerate as expected.
Failed Braking Attempt
Initial braking felt normal, and the pilot anticipated stopping before Taxiway B. However, halfway down the runway, braking became ineffective without system warnings. Both occupants applied maximum pressure without response. The aircraft ultimately veered right to avoid localizer antennas, plowing through grass and mud before plunging into water 100 feet past the runway safety area.
Absence of Skid Marks Puzzles Investigators
Post-incident examination revealed no skid marks or evidence of anti-skid system activation, despite the speedbrake being deployed. Light tire tracks in the overrun area showed no braking attempts. The NTSB noted the flight profile matched previous operations except for marginally higher touchdown speed.
Mechanical Systems Under Scrutiny
Initial inspections found no apparent faults in the wheels or braking components, which have been removed for detailed testing. The investigation continues to examine whether performance calculations, weather conditions, or undiscovered system issues contributed to the overrun.
This incident marks the latest in a series of investigations into business jet runway excursions, highlighting the challenges of wet runway operations. The NTSB’s final report may lead to revised operational guidance for HondaJet operators and updates to flight management system calculations.
