NTSB Factual Report

On May 27, 2002, at 1700 Pacific daylight time, a Grumman American AA-5A, N26221, sustained substantial damage during the landing rollout at a private airstrip (WA67) near Vancouver, Washington. The airplane is owned by the pilot, and was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) personal flight under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91. The airline transport pilot and the two passengers were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The flight originated from Evergreen Field, Vancouver, Washington, approximately 5 minutes prior to the accident. Rain showers were reported in the area at the time of the accident.

In a written report dated May 27, 2002, the pilot reported that the approach was normal, and that the airplane touched down within the first 500 feet of runway 10. He reported that after touchdown the flaps were retracted and brakes were applied, however, " ...it became apparent that the aircraft was not slowing or stopping and after standing on the brakes I then realized the aircraft would not stop on the remaining length [of runway] left." The airplane overran the departure end of the runway, colliding with a drainage ditch and fence. The pilot reported that the landing surface was wet and very slick.

The pilot stated that he hadn't experienced any mechanical difficulties or malfunctions with the airplane that contributed to the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's delayed remedial action during the landing sequence. Factors include a wet runway surface.