What happened
On 31 May 2017, a Boeing 737-300, registration PK-CJC, operated by Sriwijaya Air, experienced a runway excursion during landing at Rendani Airport in Manokwari, West Papua. The flight, SJ 570, was arriving from Sorong under visual meteorological conditions, though light rain and nearby cumulonimbus clouds were present.
During the final approach, the Pilot in Command took control of the aircraft from the Second in Command. As the aircraft descended between 500 and 200 feet, the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) issued both "Sink Rate" and "Pull Up" aural alerts. Despite these warnings, the aircraft touched down on runway 35. Upon landing, the crew activated thrust reversers and deployed spoilers, but the aircraft failed to decelerate effectively. CCTV footage captured a significant water splash during the landing roll, and the aircraft eventually came to a stop approximately 20 meters beyond the end of the runway pavement. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, including damage to the nose landing gear, the lower fuselage, and both engine fan blades. While there were 17 minor injuries among the passengers and crew, all occupants evacuated safely.
The investigation
The KNKT investigation examined the aircraft's technical state, the flight crew's performance, and the condition of the aerodrome. The investigation confirmed the aircraft was airworthy and the crew held valid licenses. Investigators analyzed flight recorder data, which showed the EGPWS warnings occurred shortly before touchdown. The inquiry also scrutinized the airport's infrastructure, noting that the runway surface contained warped areas and standing water. Furthermore, the investigation found that Rendani Airport was operating without a valid Aerodrome Certificate and that its Aerodrome Manual had not been approved by the DGCA at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered standing water on the runway surface due to recent rain.
- The runway surface exhibited warping in several 2-to-5-square-meter areas.
- Runway lighting was partially obscured by grass growth measuring 30–40 cm.
- The flight crew proceeded with the landing despite active EGPWS "Sink Rate" and "Pull Up" warnings.
- The airport lacked a valid Aerodrome Certificate and approved operational manuals.
Safety action
- The aircraft operator was advised to improve crew training regarding stabilized approach criteria following the disregard of EGPWS warnings.
- The airport operator was urged to manage runway water accumulation and maintain runway lighting.
- The DGCA was recommended to expedite the certification process for Rendani Airport.