Accident Overview
On 3 March 2022, at 21:45 local time, a Boeing 737-800 aircraft (registration EI-DHH) operated by Ryanair was parked at stand 12 of Ibiza Airport (LEIB) after landing at 21:30. Passengers disembarked via the front door using the aircraft's built-in stairs and via the rear door using a jetway. During disembarkation, a passenger descending the front stairs fell down the last two steps onto the apron, sustaining serious injuries.
Aircraft Information
The Boeing 737-800 (model 737-8AS) was manufactured with serial number 33817 and had a valid airworthiness certificate issued by the Irish Aviation Authority on 21 May 2008. The aircraft was equipped with retractable built-in stairs at the front, an option available on 737 NG and 737 MAX models. These stairs are narrower and have thinner handrails compared to external stairs. Their dimensions include a width of 0.62 m, 12 steps with non-slip treads, and a slope gradient ranging from 62% to 69% depending on height (1.85 m to 2 m). Ryanair had introduced safety measures such as non-slip material (3M Safety Walk) on the steps.
Injuries and Response
The passenger suffered serious injuries and was initially assisted by cabin crew, including flight attendant no. 4 who was directly supervising the stairs. The senior flight attendant requested a wheelchair from the aircraft's equipment. The passenger was placed in the wheelchair until medical personnel arrived. The cabin crew alerted airport services, which contacted emergency medical services of the Balearic Islands. The injured passenger was taken to hospital for specialist treatment. No other injuries or aircraft damage were reported.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the fall occurred by chance. No contributing factors or causal links were identified beyond the statement that the fall was accidental. The report did not specify any deficiencies in the stairs, crew actions, or environmental conditions.