Runway excursion during approach at Ambato Airport

No fatalities • Ambato, Ecuador • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft performing an approach to Ambato Airport overran the runway and entered a ravine after an aborted landing attempt, resulting in minor injuries to all occupants.

What happened

During a flight originating from Quito-Mariscal Sucre Airport, the crew began their descent toward Ambato Airport under favorable meteorological conditions. During the approach phase, the flight crew encountered operational stress due to the proximity of another aircraft within the approach corridor.

As the aircraft approached runway 19, it was noted to be maintaining an excessive altitude on the glide path and traveling at a speed of 100 knots, which exceeded the reference speed by approximately 12 knots. This high-speed approach resulted in the aircraft touching down roughly 900 meters beyond the runway threshold on the 2,000-meter-long runway.

Following the touchdown, the crew attempted to execute a go-around by increasing engine thrust. During this maneuver, the aircraft transitioned into a high angle of attack, which led to the base of the empennage making contact with the runway surface. The loss of control caused the aircraft to overshoot the runway end and come to a stop in a ravine situated 60 meters beyond the pavement.

All seven occupants on board survived the incident with minor injuries, though the aircraft was determined to be a total loss due to extensive damage.

Probable cause

The aircraft's high approach speed and excessive touchdown point led to an unstable go-around maneuver and subsequent loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-10-28 Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 accident near Ambato, Ecuador?

An aircraft performing an approach to Ambato Airport overran the runway and entered a ravine after an aborted landing attempt, resulting in minor injuries to all occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-10-28 Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-10-28 involved a Fairchild-Hiller FH-227, registration HC-BUF, operated by Aerogal - Aerolineas Galapagos, at Ambato, Ecuador.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft's high approach speed and excessive touchdown point led to an unstable go-around maneuver and subsequent loss of control.

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