What happened
On the night of 16 February 2020, a Ryanair B737-800 arrived at Charleroi Airport (EBCI) from Naples, Italy. During the disembarkation process at approximately 21:39 UTC, a 38-year-old male passenger fell while descending the aircraft's integrated airstairs.
As the passenger was exiting the aircraft, he was carrying a small bag in his left hand and utilizing the right-hand railing. While descending, the passenger slipped and tumbled down the stairs. During the fall, he attempted to grab the railing, which caused him to spin and ultimately land on his back and head. The incident occurred during periods of moderate rain and low light. The passenger sustained a severe concussion and a head wound requiring medical attention and was subsequently transported to a hospital.
The investigation
The investigation by AAIU(Be) examined the aircraft's integrated airstair design, the environmental conditions at the time of the event, and the passenger's actions. The inquiry reviewed CCTV footage of the fall and analyzed the meteorological data, which confirmed high winds and precipitation.
Investigators also evaluated the aircraft's maintenance and safety features, noting that the anti-skid material on the airstair steps and platform was in good condition. The investigation further reviewed the operator's safety procedures, including the disembarkation announcements intended to alert passengers to use handrails. While the crew had performed the required safety announcement, the passenger and his traveling companion did not recall hearing it.
Findings
- The fall occurred during nighttime operations characterized by rain and significant wind gusts.
- The passenger was carrying a 10kg bag in one hand, which may have impacted his stability.
- The integrated airstairs on the B737-800 are not subject to the same specific European standardization as mobile airstairs, though they are part of the aircraft's original certification.
- The existing safety mitigations, including anti-skid surfaces and crew announcements, were found to be functional, though environmental factors increased the inherent risk of the slip.