Aircraft undershoots runway threshold during ILS approach in fog

Casualties unknown • Dfw Airport, TX, US

An aircraft experienced an unstable approach and subsequent runway excursion during an ILS approach in ground fog and bright night conditions, resulting in contact with approach lights.

What happened

During an ILS approach conducted under conditions of ground fog and bright night visibility, the aircraft failed to maintain the established glide slope. The pilot-in-command descended through the glide slope at a rate of 1,215 feet per minute when the aircraft was 300 feet above the ground, significantly exceeding the required descent rate of approximately 360 feet per minute.

The aircraft touched down 1,095 feet short of the runway threshold with a descent rate of approximately 600 feet per minute. Following the initial touchdown, the aircraft became airborne for a second time before settling back onto the runway. During the subsequent ground roll, the aircraft struck five sets of approach lights located off the end of the runway. As the aircraft rolled onto the runway threshold, it became airborne once more.

The crew subsequently abandoned the approach and diverted to an alternate destination. Upon arrival at the alternate airport, the crew performed a fly-by to allow the tower to inspect the aircraft for potential landing gear damage. The flight concluded with a normal landing.

There were no injuries to the crew.

Probable cause

The pilot-in-command failed to maintain the glide slope and the copilot failed to notify the pilot of the deviation during an ILS approach in ground fog and bright night conditions.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-12-08 Boeing 737-33A accident near Dfw Airport, TX?

An aircraft experienced an unstable approach and subsequent runway excursion during an ILS approach in ground fog and bright night conditions, resulting in contact with approach lights.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-12-08 involved a Boeing 737-33A, registration N166AW, operated by America West Airlines, at Dfw Airport, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command failed to maintain the glide slope and the copilot failed to notify the pilot of the deviation during an ILS approach in ground fog and bright night conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13852. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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