Aircraft ground impact during approach at São José dos Campos

No fatalities • São José dos Campos, Brazil • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft performing a positioning flight from São Paulo-Congonhas Airport struck the ground short of the runway threshold during its final approach to São José dos Campos.

What happened

During a positioning flight originating from São Paulo-Congonhas Airport, the crew was conducting a descent toward São José dos Campos. During the approach phase, the captain handed over control of the aircraft to the co-pilot, who was currently undergoing flight instruction. As the aircraft reached the final approach stage, it was noted that the flight path was too high on the glide slope.

In an attempt to correct the descent, the captain regained control of the aircraft; however, the subsequent control inputs were excessive. This resulted in a sudden right-hand roll, leading the right wing to make contact with the ground a few dozen meters before reaching the threshold of runway 15. Following the impact, the aircraft continued along the runway and eventually came to a stop on the main strip.

Findings

  • The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
  • There were zero fatalities and zero injuries as both crew members evacuated the aircraft safely.
  • The primary factor in the incident was the excessive control reaction by the captain during the correction attempt.

Probable cause

The pilot's overcorrection during the final approach caused a sudden roll that led to a wing strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-07-15 Beechcraft Beechjet 400 accident near São José dos Campos, Brazil?

An aircraft performing a positioning flight from São Paulo-Congonhas Airport struck the ground short of the runway threshold during its final approach to São José dos Campos.

Were there any fatalities in the 2008-07-15 Beechcraft Beechjet 400 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-07-15 involved a Beechcraft Beechjet 400, registration PT-WHF, operated by Líder Taxi Aéreo, at São José dos Campos, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's overcorrection during the final approach caused a sudden roll that led to a wing strike.

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