What happened
On 7 June 1997, flight ROT 335, a BAC 111, was conducting a visual approach to runway 26 at Stockholm/Arlanda airport. The flight originated from Bucharest and was operating under visual flying rules. During the final approach, the pilot flying noted intermittent turbulence and wind gusts originating from the south. While the aircraft was approximately 8 nautical miles from the runway, air traffic control reported wind conditions of 160 degrees at 13 knots.
Although the aircraft initially drifted slightly above the glide slope, it stabilized and crossed the runway threshold correctly. The initial touchdown occurred within the designated touchdown zone on the left main gear with the nose in an upward position. However, a sudden, powerful wind gust caused the right main gear and the nose gear to strike the runway with significant force.
Following the impact, the pilot utilized rudder control, engine reverse thrust, and light braking to manage the aircraft. As the airspeed decreased to a point where rudder effectiveness was lost, the pilot attempted to use nose wheel steering but found the system was non-functional. Despite applying full braking, the aircraft continued to veer toward the right side of the runway. The aircraft eventually exited the runway surface at approximately 60 knots, traveling onto the adjacent grass area. There were no fatalities or injuries reported, and passengers were able to evacuate the aircraft via standard exits. Emergency services arrived promptly, but no medical intervention was required.
Findings
- A strong wind gust during the landing phase caused an asymmetric touchdown.
- The failure of the nose wheel steering system prevented the pilot from maintaining directional control during the high-speed portion of the rollout.