What happened
On June 4, 2017, an ATR 42-500, registration YR-ATB, operated by TAROM, was performing a scheduled flight from Bucharest to Chisinau. During the ILS approach to runway 08, the aircraft encountered a significant crosswind of approximately 16 knots. The aircraft touched down approximately 240 meters after the threshold at an indicated speed of 109 knots.
Following touchdown, the aircraft began to deviate from the runway centerline. The flight crew applied several large-scale rudder inputs, including maximum right rudder deflection for three seconds, which caused the aircraft to swing sharply toward the right edge of the runway. At approximately 720 meters after touchdown, the aircraft exited the concrete surface and entered the grass.
In an attempt to regain control, the crew applied differentiated thrust by setting the left engine to ground idle and the right engine to flight idle. This maneuver successfully brought the aircraft back onto the concrete surface. However, during this re-entry, the right main landing gear struck the concrete base of a runway edge beacon, destroying it. The aircraft then made a sharp turn to the left, crossed the entire width of the runway, and came to a final stop on the grass on the opposite side of the airfield. There were no victims during the incident.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight data, cockpit voice recorder, and meteorological conditions at the time of the event. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's trajectory, noting that the crew did not utilize the nose wheel steering system or the aircraft braking system during the rollout. The investigation also reviewed the crew's performance of standard operating procedures, specifically focusing on the approach and landing phases.
Findings
- The crew failed to perform the Descent Checklist during the approach phase, which included the critical 'Landing Brief' section intended to establish landing techniques and command transitions.
- The pilot flying applied improper control inputs, including large rudder deflections that led to a partial loss of directional control.
- The crew failed to use the hydraulic nose wheel steering system to correct heading deviations.
- The aircraft braking system was not utilized until the aircraft had nearly come to a stop.
- A lack of proper briefing regarding the transition of control and landing maneuvers contributed to the uncertainty in cockpit management.