Sequence of Events
Flight 355 departed from London en route to Singapore with a planned stop in Istanbul. The first approach to runway 24 was discontinued when the pilot-in-command could not see the runway lights. Heavy rain persisted during the subsequent approach.
During the descent, VHF communications were temporarily lost due to a power failure in the tower transmitter; communications were restored as the aircraft was in the procedure turn. The crew reported lightning and heavy turbulence. The runway was sighted when descending through 500 feet.
Final Approach and Impact
The pilot made a slight correction to the right and ordered full flaps with a power reduction to 20 inches of boost. The aircraft descended rapidly just short of the runway. More power was ordered, but the left main gear struck the ground in line with the runway, 72 meters short of the threshold. The aircraft bounced and contacted the ground again 14 meters further on.
Damage and Post-Impact
Upon impact, the left main gear and nose gear collapsed. Engines No. 1 and 2 broke off, followed by the entire left wing. The fuselage skidded 260 meters down the runway before coming to rest, and a fire developed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that during the last approach, the pilot selected full flap and reduced power too early. Due to heavy rain and poor visibility, precise height control was not achieved. The command for full power was issued too late, resulting in the undershoot condition.