Runway overrun during humanitarian flight in Atar

No fatalities • Atar, South Sudan • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft performing a UNICEF mission overran the runway in Atar after the pilot attempted to avoid wildlife on the landing strip.

What happened

During a humanitarian mission operating on behalf of UNICEF, a twin-engine aircraft was conducting a flight from Lokichogio to Atar. As the flight approached its destination, the pilot performed a low-altitude pass intended to inspect the condition of the runway and check for any animals present on the strip.

During the subsequent second approach, while on short final, the pilot identified an animal on the runway. In an attempt to avoid the hazard, the pilot opted to touch down further along the runway. However, the aircraft could not decelerate sufficiently within the available distance. The plane overran the runway surface and eventually came to a stop in a nearby ditch.

Findings

  • All four occupants of the aircraft managed to exit the wreckage without any injuries.
  • The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
  • The primary factor in the accident was the pilot's decision to land further down the runway to avoid wildlife, which resulted in insufficient stopping distance.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to avoid an animal on the runway led to a touchdown point that left insufficient distance to stop the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-07-27 Dornier DO.128 Skyservant accident near Atar, South Sudan?

A twin-engine aircraft performing a UNICEF mission overran the runway in Atar after the pilot attempted to avoid wildlife on the landing strip.

Were there any fatalities in the 1996-07-27 Dornier DO.128 Skyservant accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-07-27 involved a Dornier DO.128 Skyservant, registration 5Y-BLB, operated by Aircraft Leasing Services - ALS, at Atar, South Sudan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to avoid an animal on the runway led to a touchdown point that left insufficient distance to stop the aircraft.

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