What happened
On 14 November 1990, an ALITALIA flight departing from Milan Linate for Zürich, operated by a DC-9-32 with registration I-ATJA, was performing a scheduled approach to runway 14. During the descent, the crew engaged in extensive discussions regarding navigation aids, approach procedures, and potential landing runways.
As the aircraft approached the airport, the crew experienced difficulties maintaining the correct glide path. While descending through 4000 ft, the aircraft was already significantly below the established glide slope. During the approach, the pilot in command provided a heading readback that was incorrect, which caused uncertainty for the first officer. The crew also focused on verifying the outer marker height and discussing potential icing conditions.
As the aircraft neared the threshold, the sink rate remained high, and the crew attempted to capture the glide path. At approximately 6.25 NM from the runway, the pilots expressed confusion regarding the instrument readings. Despite an attempt to pull up and increase thrust, the aircraft' 1911.18 hrs, the plane struck the north slope of the Stadlerberg at an altitude of 1660 ft QNH. The accident resulted in 46 fatalities.
Findings
- The crew was significantly below the glide path during the final stages of the approach.
- An incorrect heading readback by the pilot in command created confusion regarding the required flight path.
- Extensive cockpit discussions regarding navigation settings and approach procedures likely distracted the crew from monitoring the descent profile.