What happened
On January 23, 2001, a Portugalia Embraer ERJ-145, registration CS-TPI, was performing a scheduled international passenger flight from Porto to Bilbao. During the approach to runway 30, the aircraft encountered significant meteorological challenges, including strong crosswinds, turbulence, and potential windshear.
The flight crew initially attempted an ILS approach but aborted the landing due to unstable conditions. After a period in the circuit, the crew initiated a second approach. During this second attempt, the aircraft's airspeed was recorded at over 176 kt, significantly exceeding the reference landing speed (Vref) of 121 kt. The aircraft touched down past the midpoint of the runway. Due to the high speed and the difficulty of maintaining directional control amidst gusty winds, the aircraft failed to stop within the paved surface. The aircraft exited the end of the runway, traveling onto uncompacted terrain and coming to a stop 135 meters past the threshold of runway 12. There were no fatalities or injuries among the 25 passengers and 4 crew members.
The investigation
The CIAIAC examined the flight data recorder (DFDR) and meteorological records from the period. The investigation established that the aircraft experienced vertical accelerations of up to 1.6g during the approach. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records and the operational procedures regarding flap settings and landing configurations. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's landing gear and engines sustained minor damage, specifically due to the ingestion of dirt and mud from the unpaved surface.
Findings
- The primary cause of the overrun was the excessive approach speed and high touchdown speed, which significantly extended the required stopping distance.
- The aircraft was unable to maintain a stabilized approach due to severe turbulence and crosswinds.
- High wind gusts and shifting wind directions complicated the crew's ability to maintain directional control during the braking phase.
- The aircraft's touchdown occurred too far down the runway, leaving insufficient distance to stop before the pavement ended.