Incident Overview
The aircraft operated as flight EI-3601, a scheduled passenger service from Manchester Airport (EGCC) to Shannon Airport (EINN). The flight departed EGCC at 07:47 hours with 21 passengers on board after a turnaround that included fuel uplift. En-route operations were normal, and the crew coordinated with air traffic control for an approach to runway 24.
Approach and Landing
The first approach to runway 24 was conducted in strong and gusty crosswind conditions. The landing was turbulent, and the aircraft contacted the runway in a nose-down attitude, causing a bounce. The crew initiated a go-around and were vectored for a second approach. During the second approach, turbulence was again encountered. Following additional bounces, the aircraft pitched nose down and made heavy contact with the runway. The nose gear subsequently collapsed, causing the aircraft's nose to descend onto the runway. Directional control was lost, and the aircraft came to rest at the junction of the runway and a taxiway.
Evacuation and Response
After engine shutdown, the forward cabin crew member informed the cockpit that there was no smoke and that doors could be opened. An evacuation was initiated. Airport fire crews arrived promptly and assisted passengers in disembarking the aircraft. No injuries were reported.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was excessive approach speed and inadequate control of aircraft pitch during a crosswind landing in very blustery conditions. Contributory factors included confusing wording in the Flight Crew Operating Manual (FCOM) that led the crew to compute an excessive wind factor in the determination of Vapp, incorrect power handling technique while landing, inexperience of the pilot in command, and inadequate information provided to flight crew regarding crosswind landing techniques.