What happened
On February 22, 2002, a BAe 146-200, registration G-FLTA, was conducting a charter flight from Germany to Arvidsjaur, Sweden. During the approach to runway 30, the flight crew received weather updates indicating light snow, wind gusts up to 22 knots, and reports that the runway had been sanded to address patches of ice. The reported braking coefficients were 49, 49, and 48.
The crew performed a right-hand procedure turn to join the ILS approach. While the touchdown itself was described as normal, the aircraft failed to decelerate as expected. Despite the application of moderate wheel braking initially, and later full brake pressure, the aircraft's speed retardation was insufficient. As the aircraft approached the end of the runway, it collided with a runway threshold light and continued off the paved surface, eventually coming to a stop on a snow-covered stopway approximately 80 meters beyond the runway threshold. There were no injuries among the 59 people on board.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the aircraft's flight data, cockpit voice recordings, and the runway conditions. The investigation focused on the discrepancy between the reported braking action and the actual performance of the aircraft. Investigators also analyzed the crew's approach procedures, the timing of brake application, and the impact of wind gusts on the aircraft's deceleration.
Findings
- The landing conditions were marginal due to the presence of snow and ice.
- The touchdown speed was somewhat higher than ideal.
- The touchdown point was located far down the runway.
- The crew initially applied only moderate wheel braking to prioritize passenger comfort.
- A delay in reducing engine thrust after touchdown contributed to the overrun.
- Strong wind gusts may have temporarily increased the tailwind component during the ground roll.
- The actual braking action was significantly worse than the reported coefficients.
Safety action
The investigation highlighted a need for further research into the mechanisms of wheel braking on contaminated runways. It was noted that measured braking action does not always accurately reflect an aircraft's true ability to decelerate, prompting a recommendation for international cooperation to develop more reliable braking information for commercial operators.