What happened
Due to ongoing maintenance work, Runway 25 at Rome-Fiumicino Airport was unavailable for use, necessitating that the flight be redirected. Air traffic control provided vectors and clearance for the aircraft to land on runway 16L. During the approach, the flight encountered challenging weather conditions, including significant windshear and strong crosswinds measuring 28 knots with gusts reaching 41 knots.
As the aircraft progressed through the final segment of the approach, it experienced a loss of altitude. The aircraft struck the ground approximately 567 metres before reaching the threshold of runway 16L. Following the initial impact, the aircraft bounced three times before the right main landing gear was lost. The aircraft then slid across the terrain for several dozen metres, eventually coming to a stop in a grassy area located roughly 1,780 metres beyond the runway threshold.
All 50 occupants were successfully rescued from the wreckage. Among the passengers and crew, seven individuals sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was determined to be a total loss due to the extent of the damage.
Findings
- The approach was conducted during periods of strong windshear and high-velocity wind gusts.
- The necessity of using an alternative runway due to construction work influenced the approach path.