Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing. Factors in the accident were a hydroplaning condition, and a wet runway.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of a twin-engine airplane related that after landing on a wet paved runway, the airplane veered to the right. The airplane went off the right side of the runway and struck a sign, sustaining structural damage to the right wing. The pilot reported in his written statement to the NTSB that there was standing water on the runway, and he believes that the airplane hydroplaned after landing. He noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC08CA069 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 17, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Caldwell, New Jersey
- Nearest airport
- Essex County Airport (CDW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Cessna 421
- N-number
- N777FF
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.