What happened
On October 27, 2017, an Embraer E195 was performing an ILS approach to runway 15 at Salzburg Airport. During the approach, the aircraft encountered heavy rain and significant wind fluctuations. At approximately 15:35 UTC, while at an altitude of roughly 2,130 feet MSL and 2.3 NM from the runway threshold, the aircraft's onboard systems triggered a windshear caution due to a rapid decrease in the tailwind component.
In response to the windshear alert, the pilot flying decided to initiate a go-around. However, during the maneuver, neither of the TOGA (Take-Off/Go-Around) thrust lever buttons was pressed. Consequently, the autothrottle system reduced engine power. Due to the high pitch angle and the continuous loss of airspeed, the aircraft's systems subsequently issued a stall warning, and the stick shaker activated for several seconds. Because the autothrottle remained in speed mode rather than transitioning to full thrust, the aircraft initially achieved only a very shallow climb. Approximately 73 seconds after the initial windshear caution, one of the TOGA buttons was pressed, allowing the engines to increase power and establish a normal climb gradient. Following two holding patterns, the aircraft landed safely on runway 15 at 16:01 UTC.
The investigation
The Austrian SUB investigation reconstructed the flight sequence using pilot statements, flight data, and company records. The investigation examined the cockpit environment, noting high noise levels due to heavy rain and the use of maximum windshield wiper speeds. The investigators also reviewed the crew's training, the aircraft's maintenance status, and the weather conditions, including the lack of prior windshear warnings via ATIS or ATC.