What happened
On 31 July 2015, an Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300, registration HZ-IBN, was conducting a private flight returning to Blackbushe Airport. While flying the visual circuit for Runway 25, the aircraft encountered several TCAS alerts due to maneuvering around other light aircraft in the vicinity. These maneuvers resulted in the aircraft being significantly higher and faster than a standard approach profile.
During the final approach, the aircraft experienced a steep descent. Despite the pilot's attempts to manage the speed, the aircraft crossed the runway threshold at approximately 151 KIAS, which was 43 kt above the target reference speed. The aircraft touched down 710 m beyond the threshold, leaving insufficient distance to stop on the remaining paved surface. The aircraft overran the runway, struck an earth bank, and collided with vehicles in an adjacent car park. The impact caused the wing to separate and ignited a large fire. All four fatalities occurred as a result of the fire.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the flight data, aircraft systems, and the sequence of events leading to the high-workload environment. Investigators found that the aircraft was mechanically sound and that the weather conditions were suitable for landing. The investigation also looked into the response of the aerodrome's Rescue and Firefighting Service (RFFS), noting that while the crew survived the initial impact, the fire intensity prevented rescue. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience and the operational procedures of the aircraft's operator.
Findings
- The aircraft crossed the threshold at a speed significantly exceeding the required landing configuration speed.
- High pilot workload caused by multiple TCAS alerts and maneuvering in the circuit likely led to mental saturation and fixation on the approach.
- The aircraft's touchdown point left insufficient runway remaining to decelerate before the end of the paved surface.
- The presence of an earth bank and a car park immediately beyond the runway contributed to the severity of the impact and the subsequent fire.