Runway excursion at Monterrey-General Mariano Escobido Airport

No fatalities • Monterrey-General Mariano Escobedo, Mexico • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran the runway during a night approach in heavy rain at Monterrey-General Mariano Escobido Airport, resulting in landing gear failure.

What happened

During a night approach into Monterrey-General Mariano Escobido Airport, the aircraft encountered challenging weather conditions characterized by mist and heavy rainfall, which significantly restricted visibility. At the time of the incident, ongoing construction at the airfield had resulted in a 900-meter displacement of the runway 29 threshold. This modification reduced the available landing distance from the standard 3,000 meters to just 2,100 meters.

Following an incorrect approach configuration, the aircraft touched down too far along the wet runway surface. Due to the reduced stopping distance and the slick conditions, the pilot was unable to halt the aircraft before the end of the pavement. The aircraft subsequently overran the runway, causing the landing gear to collapse. The vessel came to a stop approximately 60 meters beyond the runway end, with the right side of the structure partially torn away. The accident resulted in 11 injuries among the passengers, while the remaining 79 occupants were not harmed.

Findings

Investigations into the event identified that the incorrect approach configuration and the reduced landing distance caused by the displaced threshold were primary factors. The combination of heavy rain and the shortened runway length prevented the aircraft from stopping safely within the available pavement.

Probable cause

An incorrect approach configuration led to a touchdown point that exceeded the available landing distance on a shortened, wet runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-10-31 Douglas DC-9 accident near Monterrey-General Mariano Escobedo, Mexico?

An aircraft overran the runway during a night approach in heavy rain at Monterrey-General Mariano Escobido Airport, resulting in landing gear failure.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-10-31 Douglas DC-9 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-10-31 involved a Douglas DC-9, registration XA-AMF, operated by AeroMéxico, at Monterrey-General Mariano Escobedo, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An incorrect approach configuration led to a touchdown point that exceeded the available landing distance on a shortened, wet runway.

Loading the flight search…