Aircraft excursion at Bucharest-Otopeni Airport

No fatalities • Bucharest-Otopeni-Henri Coandă, Romania • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after veering off the runway and striking an observation tower during a low-visibility approach at Bucharest-Otopeni Airport.

What happened

During an approach to Bucharest-Otopeni Airport, an aircraft encountered severe weather conditions characterized by dense fog that limited visibility to approximately 100 metres. As the flight proceeded, the aircraft touched down slightly to the right of the centerline for runway 26L.

Upon landing, the right wing of the aircraft type made contact with a snow wall measuring 60 cm in height. This impact caused the aircraft to lose control, leading to a subsequent collision with an observation tower located near the runway. Despite the significant impact, all 10 occupants were able to evacuate the wreckage without any injuries reported.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the excursion was the reduced visibility caused by heavy fog during the landing phase.
  • The aircraft's position relative to the runway centerline led to the wing striking a snow accumulation.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered off the runway centerline during a low-visibility landing, resulting in a collision with a snow wall and an observation tower.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-12-18 Beechcraft Beechjet 400 accident near Bucharest-Otopeni-Henri Coandă, Romania?

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after veering off the runway and striking an observation tower during a low-visibility approach at Bucharest-Otopeni Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-12-18 Beechcraft Beechjet 400 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-12-18 involved a Beechcraft Beechjet 400, registration N3123T, operated by Transair USA, at Bucharest-Otopeni-Henri Coandă, Romania.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered off the runway centerline during a low-visibility landing, resulting in a collision with a snow wall and an observation tower.

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