What happened
During a descent toward Warsaw-Okecie Airport, the flight crew encountered severe weather characterized by thunderstorm activity. As the aircraft was on final approach, the co-pilot recommended that the captain abort the landing and perform a go-around maneuver. However, the captain declined this suggestion, disconnected the autopilot, and proceeded with the approach once visual contact with the ground was achieved at 400 feet.
During this phase, the aircraft entered a nose-down attitude and accelerated to 155 knots, which was approximately 25 to 30 knots above the prescribed approach speed. The aircraft subsequently impacted the surface of runway 33, striking the nose gear first. Following the initial impact, the plane bounced and drifted toward the left side of the runway. The aircraft continued to travel across soft ground for roughly 860 metres, during which time the nose gear was lost before the vehicle finally came to a stop.
All 96 occupants were successfully evacuated from the aircraft. While the majority of those on board were unharmed, three passengers sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was determined to be a total loss due to damage sustained during the excursion.
Findings
- The crew encountered thunderstorm activity during the descent.
- The captain's decision to continue the approach without autopilot despite high speeds and a nose-down attitude led to the impact.