1 fatality

1997-07-29: BAc 111 (5N-BAA) — ADC Airlines - Aviation Development Company — Calabar, Nigeria

Calabar, NigeriaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 29, 1997, a BAc 111 (registration 5N-BAA) operated by ADC Airlines - Aviation Development Company was involved in an aviation accident near Calabar, Nigeria during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Poor weather conditions; limited visibility and low ceiling; the aircraft was unstable on final approach and misaligned with runway 03; the aircraft landed at excessive speed; the crew failed to initiate a go-around; poor planned approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781205936Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft approaching Calabar Airport runway 03 in poor weather with heavy rain and low visibility landed unstably, veered off the runway, struck a ditch, and caught fire. One crew member died and 10 occupants were injured.

Approach and Weather

The approach to Calabar Airport runway 03 was conducted in adverse weather conditions. Heavy rainfall, turbulence, a cloud ceiling of 240 meters, and visibility limited to 2,800 meters were reported.

Landing and Excursion

On final approach, the aircraft was unstable and not properly aligned with the runway centerline. Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear contacted the grassy area to the left of the runway. The captain attempted to correct the deviation, but the aircraft veered to the right, returning to the runway surface before overrunning the end. It struck a ditch and came to rest approximately 1,500 meters beyond the initial touchdown point. The aircraft then burst into flames.

Aftermath

One crew member was killed, and 10 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by impact and fire.

Probable Cause

The official investigation identified the following findings: poor weather conditions; limited visibility and low ceiling; the aircraft was unstable on final approach and misaligned with runway 03; the aircraft landed at excessive speed; the crew failed to initiate a go-around; and the approach was poorly planned.