What happened
On 7 January 1998, an Avro 146-RJ85, registration EI-CNJ, was performing a scheduled passenger flight from Turin to London City Airport. The approach was conducted during windy conditions with reported windshear on short finals. The aircraft was on an ILS/DME approach to Runway 28.
During the landing roll, the aircraft touched down nosewheel first at a high speed. The mainwheels did not make contact with the runway until approximately 560 metres after the initial nosewheel touchdown. Following this, the aircraft experienced heavy braking and visible smoke from the tyres. The aircraft eventually overran the published landing distance available, entering the runway starter extension. The aircraft remained on the paved surface and was able to taxi off the runway without assistance. There were no fatalities and no injuries to the 4 crew members or 2 and 28 passengers on board.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's flight data recorder, which revealed that the approach was flown with flap 33 selected. Although the pilot had increased approach speed to account for windshear, the aircraft's nose was lowered significantly after touchdown. The flight data showed that the control column was pushed to a full forward position and held there throughout the landing roll.
Analysis of the runway surface showed tyre marks consistent with the anti-skid system functioning normally until the wheels locked at low speed in the extension area. The investigation also looked into the airport's visual aids, noting that the touchdown zone lights were not clearly indicated on the Jeppesen aerodrome charts used by the operator.
Findings
- The aircraft touched down at an excessive speed due to the pilot's attempt to compensate for windshear.
- The pilot applied significant forward pressure on the control column after the nosewheel touched the ground, which prevented the mainwheels from effectively loading the sensors.
- This lack of weight on the mainwheels delayed the deployment of ground spoilers and rendered the wheel brakes ineffective during the initial part of the roll.
- Discrepancies in manufacturer documentation and aerodrome charts regarding the significance of touchdown zone lights contributed to potential confusion regarding the landing point.