What happened
During an approach to Warsaw-Okecie Airport from Frankfurt, the flight crew encountered hazardous meteorological conditions, including heavy rain, thunderstorms, cumulonimbus clouds, and wind shear. After receiving clearance to land on runway 11, a sudden change in wind components occurred during the final moments of the landing sequence. The aircraft's right main gear made contact with the runway surface 770 metres beyond the threshold while traveling at 170 knots. Approximately nine seconds later, the left main gear touched down 1,525 metres past the threshold.
Despite the immediate deployment of spoilers, thrust reversers, and braking efforts on the wet runway, the aircraft could not be stopped within the available pavement. The aircraft overran the runway, descended down an embankment, and lost its left engine. The sequence ended 90 metres further along when the aircraft caught fire. The accident resulted in two fatalities, including the captain and one passenger, while the remaining occupants were rescued, including 51 serious injuries. The aircraft was a total loss due to the subsequent fire.
Findings
- The landing occurred during significant weather activity involving wind shear and thunderstorms.
- A sudden change in wind components during the final seconds of the landing contributed to the long touchdown point beyond the runway threshold.