What happened
On June 7, 2017, at approximately 22:40 UTC, a Learjet 35A, registration PT-LHT, was performing a flight from Goiânia to Carajás, Brazil. The aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for the landing phase, carrying two pilots and three passengers.
During the approach to runway 10, the crew experienced fluctuations in the glide path. In an attempt to correct the descent, the aircraft climbed above the approach slope, resulting in an increase in airspeed. The aircraft subsequently floated over the runway, leading to a long touchdown approximately 1,200 meters from the threshold.
As the aircraft continued down the runway, it exceeded the end of the pavement at runway 28. The aircraft exited the runway and struck a masonry drainage ditch located approximately 70 meters beyond the runway end. While the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the landing gear, flaps, and lower fuselage, all five occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the flight history, aircraft maintenance records, and airport infrastructure. The investigation focused on the stabilized approach criteria and the effectiveness of the Runway End Safety Area (RESA).
Investigators noted that although the pilots reported that the brakes and reverse thrust failed to operate, technical inspections confirmed that both systems were functioning normally at the time of the accident. The investigation also analyzed the aircraft's performance, noting that the approach was flown at approximately 12 knots above the reference speed (Vref) and that the flaps were not in the required landing configuration. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the presence of the drainage ditch within the RESA, which is intended to be a level and clear area to mitigate risks during runway excursions.
Findings
- Unstabilized Approach: The crew failed to maintain a stabilized approach, allowing the aircraft to gain excessive speed and float during the landing.
- Improper Flight Controls: The use of flight controls during the final approach contributed to the increased speed and long touchdown.
- Decision Making: The crew proceeded with the landing despite an unstabilized approach and failed to execute a go-around when the landing parameters were compromised.
- Airport Infrastructure: The presence of a masonry drainage ditch in the RESA contributed to the substantial damage to the aircraft.
- Situational Awareness: Low situational awareness regarding approach parameters, potentially exacerbated by night VFR operations in a mountainous area with limited ground lighting, contributed to the error.