Aircraft undershoot accident near Aurangabad

No fatalities • Aurangabad, India • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a rapid descent and crashed short of the runway during poor weather conditions while approaching Aurangabad.

What happened

During an approach to Aurangabad, the flight crew encountered worsening meteorological conditions, including rain and reduced visibility. Although air traffic control provided updates regarding surface winds and precipitation, the pilot observed similar deteriorating weather personally.

As the aircraft approached runway 27, the commander identified the runway late in the descent. This resulted in a high rate of descent that triggered both the Ground Proximity Warning System and audible alerts. In an attempt to recover from the sink rate, the pilot tried to increase engine thrust; however, the power lever failed to move forward as intended. Consequently, the aircraft continued to descend rapidly and struck the undershoot area of the runway. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, though no fire occurred following the crash.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the primary factor was the pilot's high rate of descent during a landing attempt in adverse weather, which could not be corrected due to improper handling of engine controls. Additionally, the crew's lack of awareness regarding the specific extent of the deteriorating visibility conditions contributed to the accident. There were no serious injuries reported among the occupants.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to manage the descent rate and could not adjust engine power effectively during a landing approach in poor weather.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-09-22 Dornier DO228 accident near Aurangabad, India?

An aircraft experienced a rapid descent and crashed short of the runway during poor weather conditions while approaching Aurangabad.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-09-22 Dornier DO228 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-09-22 involved a Dornier DO228, registration VT-EJT, operated by Vayudoot, at Aurangabad, India.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to manage the descent rate and could not adjust engine power effectively during a landing approach in poor weather.

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