What happened
On January 16, 2017, a Boeing 747-412F, registration TC-MCL, was operating a cargo flight from Hong Kong to Istanbul via Bishkek. The flight was carrying approximately 85,618 kg of consumer goods. After a period of rest in Hong Kong, the aircraft departed with a delay of just over two hours. During the initial stages of the flight, including takeoff and cruise, all aircraft systems functioned as intended.
As the aircraft approached Manas Airport, the crew received several weather updates indicating deteriorating conditions, including low visibility and freezing fog. At approximately 01:10 UTC, air traffic control reported a visibility of only 50 meters and a Runway Visual Range (RVR) of 300 meters. Despite these conditions, the crew indicated their intention to proceed with the ILS approach to Runway 26.
During the final approach, the aircraft was noted to be at an altitude significantly higher than the prescribed profile. The aircraft subsequently overran the runway, coming to rest 900 meters beyond the far end of the runway threshold. Following the excursion, the aircraft struck an aerodrome barrier and buildings in a nearby suburban area. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate, and a post-crash fire destroyed a large portion of the airframe. The crew failed to respond to subsequent communications from the tower controller.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in extreme low-visibility conditions characterized by freezing fog and very low vertical visibility.
- The aircraft approached the runway threshold at an altitude significantly higher than the planned approach profile.