Runway overrun at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport

No fatalities • Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion during landing at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport due to heavy rain and an improper approach.

What happened

During an arrival at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport, the aircraft encountered challenging weather characterized by intense rainfall and significantly reduced visibility. While performing the landing sequence, the flight was positioned too high on the glide path, resulting in the aircraft touching down much further down the runway than intended.

In an attempt to recover the situation, the captain steered the aircraft toward the left side of the runway. However, due to the moisture on the pavement, the plane failed to maintain control and overran the end of the runway. During the excursion, the aircraft sustained damage including the loss of two engines and the destruction of its landing gear. The impact resulted in the total loss of the airframe. All four crew members managed to evacuate the wreckage without injury.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified that the primary reason for the accident was an incorrect approach configuration by the flight crew, which led to a touchdown point that exceeded the available stopping distance. The crew's failure to execute a go-around procedure during the unstable approach was a critical factor. Additionally, the heavy rain and the resulting wet runway surface were noted as contributing elements that hindered the aircraft's ability to stop safely.

Probable cause

The crew failed to perform a go-around during an improper approach, leading to a touchdown point that left insufficient runway for stopping on a wet surface.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1984-09-18 Douglas DC-8 accident near Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia?

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion during landing at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport due to heavy rain and an improper approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 1984-09-18 Douglas DC-8 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-09-18 involved a Douglas DC-8, registration HK-2380, operated by LAC Colombia - Lineas Aéreas del Caribe, at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to perform a go-around during an improper approach, leading to a touchdown point that left insufficient runway for stopping on a wet surface.

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