What happened
On May 21, 2018, an Alliance Air ATR-72-600, registration VT-AIX, was operating a scheduled flight from Mumbai to Shirdi. During the landing phase at Shirdi Airport, the aircraft experienced a series of bounces on the runway. Despite the application of maximum braking and reverse thrust, the aircraft could not stop within the remaining paved surface. The aircraft subsequently exited the runway and entered the Runway End Safety Area (RESA), coming to a halt on a gravel surface approximately 111 meters beyond the runway end. There were 42 passengers and 4 crew members on board, and while the incident was classified as a serious incident, no injuries were reported.
The investigation
The investigation by AAIB India examined the flight data, cockpit voice recordings, and meteorological conditions. Investigators established that the flight was operating behind its scheduled departure time. During the approach, the crew requested a straight-in landing for runway 09. The investigation reviewed the aircraft's performance, noting that the braking system functioned effectively and the propellers entered reverse mode. The inquiry also looked into the airport's infrastructure, specifically the availability of wind socks and the response of emergency services.
Findings
- The crew elected to land on runway 09 to avoid the time delay associated with a runway change, despite the presence of high tailwinds exceeding company operating limits.
- The aircraft was not in a stabilized configuration during the final approach, with the airspeed at 50 feet being significantly higher than recommended.
- The aircraft touched down ahead of the aiming point and bounced twice before finally settling on the runway.
- At the moment the aircraft finally settled, only 604 meters of runway remained, which was insufficient to accommodate the required 775 meters needed to stop given the wind conditions.
- The tailwind component during touchdown was approximately 15 knots, exceeding the company's 13-knot limit.
- Emergency services at the airport did not arrive at the incident site in a timely manner to assist with the deplaning process.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the airline issue an operational circular to ensure crews strictly adhere to all approved operating limitations regarding wind limits.
- An audit of the airport emergency services at Shirdi Airport is required to ensure preparedness for handling emergency situations.