Learjet 31A Runway Excursion in Diamantina

Casualties unknown • DIAMANTINA, MG, BR

A Learjet 31A overran the runway at Juscelino Kubitschek Airport during landing, resulting in substantial aircraft damage and minor injuries to four occupants.

What happened

On January 2, 2021, a Learjet 31A, registration PP-BBV, was performing a repositioning flight from Congonhas Airport (SBSP) to Juscelino Kubitschek Airport (SNDT) in Diamantina, MG. The aircraft was carrying two pilots and two passengers to pick up a patient.

During the landing phase on runway 03, the aircraft experienced a long landing. Witnesses observed the approach was higher and faster than normal. The aircraft touched down near the taxiway entrance, leaving only approximately 600 meters of runway remaining. Due to the insufficient distance to decelerate, the aircraft overran the end of the runway, crossed the threshold, and slid down a steep embankment before coming to a halt after impacting a rock. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though all four occupants sustained only minor injuries.

The investigation

The CENIPA investigation focused on the flight parameters and crew performance during the final approach. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's maintenance records, which were up to date, and verified that the pilots were properly qualified and medically certified.

Technical analysis of the runway markings and tire tracks confirmed the long landing touchdown point. The investigation also examined the cockpit environment, noting that while the aircraft was equipped with a Cockpit Voice Recorder, no data was recorded for this specific flight. The investigation looked into the crew's coordination, the decision-making process regarding the unstable approach, and potential physiological factors such as fatigue affecting the pilot flying.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an unstable approach and a long landing, where the decision to continue the landing despite insufficient remaining runway distance led to the runway excursion. Contributing factors included inadequate flight control application, poor cockpit coordination, and an inadequate perception of risk, with potential fatigue affecting the pilot's cognitive performance.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-01-02 aircraft accident near DIAMANTINA, MG, BR?

A Learjet 31A overran the runway at Juscelino Kubitschek Airport during landing, resulting in substantial aircraft damage and minor injuries to four occupants.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-01-02 involved a aircraft, registration PPBBV, at DIAMANTINA, MG, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an unstable approach and a long landing, where the decision to continue the landing despite insufficient remaining runway distance led to the runway excursion. Contributing factors included inadequate flight control application, poor cockpit coordination, and an inadequate perception of…

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