Aircraft impact short of runway at Rio Branco-Presidente Médici Airport

No fatalities • Rio Branco-Plácido de Castro, Brazil • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft performing an approach to Rio Branco-Presidente Médici Airport struck trees and ran off the runway during a descent in foggy conditions, resulting in no injuries.

What happened

During an approach to runway 06 at Rio Branco-Presidente Médici Airport, the crew encountered marginal weather conditions characterized by fog and restricted visibility. The flight, which had originated from Manaus, proceeded without incident until the descent phase. After the aircraft descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) of 1,150 feet, the descent continued at an excessive rate of 1,222 feet per minute.

At an altitude of approximately 57 feet, the aircraft collided with trees situated 360 meters before the runway threshold. This impact caused a loss of engine power, airspeed, and altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground roughly 100 meters short of the runway. The force of the impact caused the undercarriage to detach, and the aircraft slid for 600 meters before coming to a complete stop. Although the aircraft was destroyed, all 95 occupants survived the accident without injury.

Findings

  • The approach was conducted in low-visibility conditions due to fog.
  • The crew maintained an excessive rate of descent after passing the MDA.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck trees and the ground due to an excessive rate of descent during an approach in low-visibility conditions.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-01-26 Boeing 737-200 accident near Rio Branco-Plácido de Castro, Brazil?

An aircraft performing an approach to Rio Branco-Presidente Médici Airport struck trees and ran off the runway during a descent in foggy conditions, resulting in no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 2003-01-26 Boeing 737-200 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-01-26 involved a Boeing 737-200, registration PP-SPJ, operated by VASP - Viação Aérea de São Paulo, at Rio Branco-Plácido de Castro, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck trees and the ground due to an excessive rate of descent during an approach in low-visibility conditions.

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