Runway excursion at Asmara-Johannes IV Airport involving three-engine aircraft

No fatalities • Asmara, Eritrea • Landing (descent or approach)

A three-engine aircraft overran the runway at Asmara-Johannes IV Airport after landing on a wet surface, resulting in structural damage but no fatalities.

What happened

An aircraft operated by an unspecified operator arrived at Asmara-Johannes IV Airport from Sana'a without prior incident. Upon landing on runway 25, the aircraft encountered a runway surface that was wet following recent precipitation. After the wheels made contact with the pavement, the crew initiated standard braking protocols and engaged the thrust reverser systems.

Despite these efforts, the aircraft was unable to decelerate sufficiently within the 3 km length of the runway. The aircraft subsequently exited the paved surface and struck a concrete block positioned near a runway light just beyond the runway threshold. The impact caused the left main landing gear to be detached from the airframe. All 140 occupants successfully evacuated the aircraft without injury. The three-engine aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

Investigation into the event noted that the wind conditions at the time of the accident were recorded at 200 degrees at 6 knots. While the exact location of the initial touchdown on the runway could not be precisely identified, it was confirmed that all braking mechanisms were functional and were correctly deployed by the crew. The primary factor in the excursion was the wet runway surface which impeded the aircraft's ability to stop before the end of the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to stop on the runway due to reduced braking effectiveness on a wet surface.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-08-01 Boeing 727-200 accident near Asmara, Eritrea?

A three-engine aircraft overran the runway at Asmara-Johannes IV Airport after landing on a wet surface, resulting in structural damage but no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2001-08-01 Boeing 727-200 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-08-01 involved a Boeing 727-200, registration 7O-ACW, operated by Yemenia Yemen Airways, at Asmara, Eritrea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to stop on the runway due to reduced braking effectiveness on a wet surface.

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