What happened
On 20 October 2005, a Bombardier DHC-8-402 (Q400), registration G-JEDW, was conducting a practice CAT II ILS approach at Leeds Bradford International Airport. The flight, operated by Flybe, involved a crew of four and 60 passengers.
During the approach, the aircraft deviated from the assigned ATC heading. This occurred because the co-pilot had set a new heading on his independent selector, which went unnoticed by the commander. As the aircraft descended, the co-tpilot disconnected the autopilot at approximately 75 ft agl and simultaneously retarded both power levers. This sudden reduction in power led to a high rate of descent. In an attempt to correct the descent, the co-pilot flared the aircraft positively, which caused the underside of the rear fuselage to contact the runway. The impact resulted in the abrasion of the 'runway touched' sensor fairing, though no injuries were reported and no structural damage was found beyond the fairing.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which revealed that the co-pilot, who was relatively inexperienced on this aircraft type, had flown the approach and landing in violation of standard company procedures. The investigation also looked into the aircraft's heading selection system, noting that the two pilots used independent selectors that could lead to unmonitored heading changes. Furthermore, the investigation assessed the sensitivity of the power levers at low torque settings, which can make precise power management difficult for pilots unfamiliar with the aircraft's characteristics.
Findings
- The co-pilot's unintentional heading deviation due to independent selector settings.
- A sudden reduction in power by the co-pilot at a low altitude.
- The co-pilot's lack of familiarity with landing the aircraft using flap 15 settings and the high sensitivity of power levers at low torque.
- Inconsistency in company procedures regarding who should land the aircraft during practice CAT II approaches.
Safety action
- Safety Recommendation 2006-049: The operator should expedite the reconfiguration of heading selectors on their Q400 fleet so that a selection by one pilot is identical on both instruments.
- Safety Recommendation 2006-050: The CAA should ensure Flybe co-pilots receive specific training and practice for landing from CAT II ILS approaches.