Citation CJ4 Overrun: Pilot Error or Mechanical Failure? Your Rights After an Aviation Accident

On September 18, 2025, a Cessna Citation CJ4 overran the runway at Mayfield-Graves County Airport in Kentucky, striking a house and raising serious questions about the causes of such incidents. While thankfully no one was seriously injured, this event underscores the potential for significant damage and the complex legal issues that can arise from aviation accidents. According to aviation safety statistics in 2025, pilot error is responsible for nearly 70% of all aviation accidents. This article delves into the possible factors behind runway overruns, including pilot error and mechanical failure, and outlines your rights if you or a loved one are involved in an aviation accident.

Understanding Runway Overruns

A runway overrun occurs when an aircraft is unable to stop on the runway after landing and continues off the end. These incidents can range from minor inconveniences to catastrophic events, depending on the speed of the aircraft, the runway conditions, and the presence of obstacles beyond the runway. Several factors can contribute to runway overruns, broadly categorized as pilot error and mechanical failure.

Pilot Error: A Leading Cause

Pilot error is a significant factor in aviation accidents, including runway overruns. According to a 2023 Pilot Institute report, pilot error was the cause of 69.1% of all general aviation accidents in 2020. Several specific pilot-related issues can lead to overruns:

Unstable Approach: A high and fast approach can leave the pilot with insufficient distance to slow the aircraft and land safely. In the Mayfield incident, preliminary reports suggest the pilot configured the aircraft for landing “later than intended” and was traveling at approximately 213 knots 1.64 miles from the runway, nearly double the appropriate speed for approach.
Delayed Decision to Go-Around: A go-around is a rejected landing where the pilot aborts the landing and circles around to attempt another approach. Delaying this decision, even by a few seconds, can significantly reduce the available runway for stopping.
Improper Braking Technique: Pilots must use proper braking techniques, including deploying ground spoilers and applying appropriate pressure to the brakes. The NTSB preliminary report from the Mayfield, Kentucky incident indicates the pilot reported “no braking action” despite firmly pressing the brakes.
Misjudgment of Runway Conditions: Pilots must accurately assess runway conditions, including length, surface contamination (water, snow, ice), and wind, to determine if a safe landing is possible.
Fatigue and Stress: Fatigue and stress can impair a pilot’s judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of errors during landing.

Mechanical Failure: A Critical Concern

While pilot error is often cited as the primary cause, mechanical failures can also play a significant role in runway overruns. Potential mechanical issues include:

Brake Failure: Malfunctions in the braking system can prevent the aircraft from slowing down effectively.
Engine Failure: Although airplane engines have greatly improved in reliability over the past 75 years, they remain a top contributor to mechanical accidents, accounting for over 60% of such incidents in 2020.
Landing Gear Malfunction: Problems with the landing gear, such as failure to deploy or uneven deployment, can affect the aircraft’s ability to decelerate.
Spoiler Failure: Ground spoilers are designed to disrupt airflow over the wings, reducing lift and increasing the effectiveness of the brakes. If these fail to deploy, the aircraft may float further down the runway.

The Role of Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial to preventing mechanical failures. According to an AOPA study, mechanical-related accidents account for roughly 18 percent of total accidents and 10 percent of fatal accidents. Inadequate maintenance, deferred maintenance items, or errors during maintenance procedures can all contribute to accidents. In the Citation CJ4 incident in Kentucky, the aircraft had just completed maintenance prior to the incident.

Your Rights After an Aviation Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a runway overrun or other aviation accident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights. Aviation accident cases are complex and often involve multiple parties, including:

The Pilot: Pilot negligence, such as operating under the influence, failing to follow proper procedures, or making critical misjudgments, can lead to liability.
The Airline/Operator: Airlines may be responsible if poor maintenance, inadequate safety protocols, or untrained staff contributed to the accident
The Aircraft Manufacturer: If the accident was caused by a design or manufacturing defect in the aircraft, a product liability claim may be brought against the manufacturer.
Maintenance and Repair Companies: Third-party companies responsible for inspecting and maintaining the aircraft can be held liable if their negligence contributed to the accident.
Air Traffic Control: Air traffic controllers can be held responsible if they fail to guide an aircraft properly.

Legal Options for Aviation Accident Victims

Personal Injury Claims: Survivors of aviation accidents can file personal injury claims against the responsible parties to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability and rehabilitation costs
Wrongful Death Claims: If an aviation accident results in fatalities, the victim’s family can file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Emotional distress and loss of companionship

The Importance of Legal Representation

Given the complexities of aviation law and the potential for multiple liable parties, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced aviation accident attorney. An attorney can:

Investigate the accident: Conduct an independent investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
Navigate complex regulations: Understand and navigate the complex regulations governing aviation accidents, including those of the FAA and NTSB.
Negotiate with insurance companies: Deal with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Represent you in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, represent you in court and advocate for your rights.

Seeking Justice and Compensation

Aviation accidents can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. Understanding the potential causes of accidents like runway overruns and knowing your legal rights are crucial steps in seeking justice and fair compensation. If you or a loved one has been affected by an aviation accident, consulting with an experienced aviation accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.