What happened
On the night of 11 December 2021, a Boeing 737-800, registration EI-EMM, arrived at Dublin Airport from Arrecife Lanzarote Airport. During the disembarkation process, a passenger fell from near the top of the aircraft's forward integrated airstair. As the individual descended, they fell to the bottom of the stairs, colliding with another passenger who was standing on the apron and attempting to assist. The falling passenger suffered a serious head injury and required hospitalization, while a second passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The AAIU conducted a desk investigation, which included reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing cabin crew. The footage revealed that the passenger was holding both handrails but was also carrying an item of clothing in one hand. The passenger appeared to be descending the steps normally without stumbling before the fall occurred. Inspections of the airstair and the surrounding area by airport fire services and the operator revealed no mechanical defects in the stairs. While the ground around the aircraft was wet due to light rain, the airstair itself was reported to be dry at the time of the incident.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating a scheduled commercial flight.
- The passenger was using the integrated airstair, which featured non-slip material and safety barriers.
- The specific cause of the fall could not be conclusively determined because the passenger could not be reached for an interview.
- There were no defects found in the aircraft's integrated stairs.
- The weather conditions involved light rain and cloudy skies, though the stairs were dry.
Safety action
Following the investigation, a safety recommendation was issued to EASA to launch a safety promotion campaign. This campaign aims to educate both passengers and crew on behaviors that minimize the risk of falls during the embarkation and disembarkation processes.