Approach and Windshear Encounter
The approach to Hanamaki Airport was conducted by the copilot. While on short final, eight seconds prior to landing on runway 02, the aircraft was affected by downdrafts and windshear. Three seconds before touchdown, the captain regained control, but the recovery was too late to prevent a hard landing.
Landing and Post-Impact Fire
The aircraft landed hard, with the right main landing gear striking the runway first. It then rolled for approximately 1,860 meters before coming to rest on the runway. Following the landing, a fire erupted under the right wing after a fuel tank rupture. All 76 occupants were successfully evacuated; among them, 20 sustained injuries.
Official Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft encountered windshear on short final, with winds from 240° to 320° gusting between 26 and 47 knots. The copilot, who was at the controls, lacked sufficient experience in accordance with the operator's operational procedures. Poor supervision by the captain and a delayed recovery were cited as contributing factors.