What happened
On 10 December 2021, a Boeing 737-8AS, registration EI-DLH, operated by Ryanair, arrived at Santiago Airport (LEST) from Valencia. While passengers were disembarking via the aircraft's integrated forward airstairs, a passenger fell down the final three steps of the staircase.
The passenger, who was carrying a suitcase in one hand and a coat in the other, landed face down on the apron. The fall resulted in minor injuries, including abrasions to the hands, knee, and nose, as well as cuts to the nose and lips. Due to the absence of an on-site nurse at the time of the incident, an ambulance was called, arriving approximately 30 minutes later to transport the individual to a hospital for treatment.
The investigation
The CIAIAC examined the safety features of the aircraft's integrated airstairs and the operator's disembarkation protocols. The investigation noted that the aircraft was equipped with non-slip material (3M Safety Walk 710) and warning signs on the stair risers advising passengers to use the handrails.
Regarding the operator's procedures, the investigation found that while Ryanair makes disembarkation announcements in English, these instructions may not be understood by all passengers. The injured passenger, a Spanish national, stated he did not hear or understand the instructions provided. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's operator had previously implemented safety measures, such as high-visibility barriers, to mitigate risks associated with these types of stairs.
Findings
- The aircraft's operator had implemented available safety measures to improve the security of the integrated stairs.
- The passenger descended the stairs without using the handrail because both hands were occupied by a suitcase and a coat.
- The passenger's actions were not in accordance with the operator's disembarkation instructions.