Runway excursion at Kunming-Wujiaba Airport

No fatalities • Kunming-Wujiaba, China • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran the runway at Kunming-Wujiaba Airport during a heavy rainstorm, resulting in minor injuries and significant damage to the airframe.

What happened

During an approach to runway 03 at Kunming-Wujiaba Airport, the flight encountered severe weather characterized by heavy rainfall. Due to an incorrect approach configuration, the crew performed a landing at a speed of 170 knots. The aircraft made contact with the runway surface approximately 2,500 feet beyond the threshold.

Because of the wet state of the runway, the aircraft could not decelerate sufficiently within the available pavement. The subsequent overrun led to a collision with the ILS antenna and the approach lighting system. During the excursion, the nose gear was lost, and the aircraft eventually came to a halt. While all 148 occupants were successfully rescued, the incident resulted in 15 injuries.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating in poor weather conditions with heavy rain.
  • The crew utilized an incorrect approach configuration.
  • The landing was executed at an excessive speed of 170 knots.
  • The wet runway surface contributed to the inability to stop the aircraft before the end of the runway.

Probable cause

An incorrect approach configuration led to an excessive landing speed that prevented the aircraft from stopping on a wet runway.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-07-20 Boeing 737-300 accident near Kunming-Wujiaba, China?

An aircraft overran the runway at Kunming-Wujiaba Airport during a heavy rainstorm, resulting in minor injuries and significant damage to the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 1994-07-20 Boeing 737-300 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-07-20 involved a Boeing 737-300, registration B-2540, operated by China Yunnan Airlines, at Kunming-Wujiaba, China.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An incorrect approach configuration led to an excessive landing speed that prevented the aircraft from stopping on a wet runway.

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