Runway excursion at Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport

No fatalities • Ürümqi-Diwopu, China • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran the runway during landing at Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport following an unstable approach in snowy weather, resulting in the destruction of the plane.

What happened

During an approach to Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport, the flight crew encountered difficult weather conditions characterized by snowfall. While on final approach, the aircraft maintained an excessive altitude relative to the glide slope. This resulted in the plane touching down significantly further down the runway than intended.

Due to the late touchdown position, the aircraft lacked sufficient remaining runway length to decelerate safely. The plane subsequently overran the end of the pavement, coming to a stop several dozen yards beyond the threshold. While there were five injuries among the crew members, none were classified as fatal. The aircraft was a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the incident determined that the crew failed to maintain a proper approach configuration. Specifically, the flight was conducted while the plane was too high on the glide path. The investigation concluded that because the approach parameters were non-compliant with standard procedures, the crew should have performed a go-around rather than attempting to land.

Probable cause

The crew attempted to land despite being too high on the glide path instead of executing a mandatory go-around.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-12-15 Boeing 707 accident near Ürümqi-Diwopu, China?

An aircraft overran the runway during landing at Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport following an unstable approach in snowy weather, resulting in the destruction of the plane.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-12-15 Boeing 707 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-12-15 involved a Boeing 707, registration AP-AVZ, operated by Pakistan International Airlines - PIA, at Ürümqi-Diwopu, China.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew attempted to land despite being too high on the glide path instead of executing a mandatory go-around.

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