Embraer ERJ 170 Approaches Too Low at Frankfurt, Touching Approach Lighting

Event Overview On 1 March 2005, an Embraer ERJ 170 was on an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 25R at Frankfurt/Main. Shortly before touchdown, the aircraft’s main landing gear contacted the runway approach lighting approximately 60 m before the threshold. The aircraft sustained light damage, and the approach lighting was damaged. No passengers or crew were injured. ## Flight and Crew The aircraft departed Milan-Malpensa at 21:25 local time with about a 30-minute delay, carrying 24 passengers and four crew members. The flight was operated by an Italian operator, and the aircraft had an Irish registration. Both pilots held valid licences and ratings. The pilot in command was 48 years old with about 12,000 total flight hours and about 360 hours on the ERJ 170. The second pilot was 36 years old with about 1,800 total flight hours and about 300 hours on the ERJ 170. Both had about 16 hours of rest before the flight and no medical restrictions. ## Approach and Findings The autopilot was used until about 340 ft, after which the second pilot took manual control. The aircraft then remained below the 3° ILS glideslope for about 25 seconds. The flight data recorder showed a constant indicated airspeed of 120 kt and autothrust engaged until touchdown. The first ground contact occurred about 60 m before the threshold, on the extended centreline. Five approach lighting lamps were destroyed or damaged. The aircraft had damage to the landing gear, lower fuselage, and right landing flap. ## Investigation Conclusions The investigation concluded that the aircraft touched the approach lighting because it was flown below the glideslope in an attempt to make a short landing. Contributing factors included time pressure from the flight delay and the relative inexperience of both pilots on the aircraft type. No technical cause was identified.