What happened
During the landing rollout phase, an aircraft experienced a significant loss of directional control following the deployment of thrust reversers. The aircraft had touched down on the runway centerline approximately 1,2 and 200 feet past the threshold. As the pilot transitioned both thrust levers into the reverse position, the aircraft began to yaw toward the right.
In an attempt to correct the yaw, the pilot moved the number one thrust lever out of the reverse setting. However, this action inadvertently placed the number one engine into the Take-Off/Go-Around (TOGA) position while the number two engine remained in full reverse. This thrust asymmetry created intense rightward yawing forces that the crew could not counteract with rudder or braking inputs. The aircraft subsequently exited the runway onto the dirt infield, causing the nose gear strut to collapse and resulting in damage to the forward fuselage. The aircraft came to a stop roughly 7,650 feet from the runway threshold. There were no fatalities and no fire was reported.
Findings
Prior to the flight, maintenance personnel had deactivated and mechanically locked the number one thrust reverser in the stowed position. While the aircraft was permitted to fly under Minimum Equipment List (MEL) protocols with a visible placard, the captain did not include the status of this inoperative component in the approach and landing briefing. Although the first officer did not mention the status, company procedures tasked the non-flying pilot with supporting the flying pilot and correcting omissions in the briefing.
An investigation into the aircraft's mechanical systems, including the braking, antiskid, and throttle control units, revealed no malfunctions. The primary cause of the excursion was the improper positioning of the thrust levers during the deceleration process.