Flight Details
The aircraft departed Jodhpur at 0940 UTC under visual meteorological conditions, climbing to flight level 100 (FL100) as filed. The crew requested a higher level due to continuous turbulence but were advised to continue at FL100 and contact Udaipur ATC for a level change. At 0944 UTC, the aircraft established contact with Udaipur, approximately 50 nautical miles away. Weather passed by ATC reported winds 180/07 kts, visibility 6 km, temperature 34°C, QNH 1006 hPa, and the crew were advised for an ILS approach to runway 26.
Approach and Landing
The pilot requested a right base visual approach to runway 26, which was approved. No aircraft defects or snags had been reported. During approach, when flap 10 degrees was selected, the flap did not respond and a 'Flaps-Fail' message appeared. The crew conducted the flapless landing checklist. At 1004 UTC, on final approach, ATC cleared the aircraft to land on runway 26 with prevailing winds 230/10 kts, which was acknowledged.
Impact and Aftermath
At approximately 20 to 30 feet above ground, the pilot reported experiencing a sudden down-draft. The aircraft touched down heavily on the runway centerline, just before the touchdown zone, after the threshold point. The impact caused both main wheel tyres to burst, starting with the right tyre. The aircraft continued rolling on the centerline for about 1,000 feet, then gradually veered to the right of runway 26 after covering approximately 2,200 feet from the threshold. It departed the runway shoulder, rolled almost straight for another 90 feet, and came to a stop after impacting the airport boundary wall.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the approach speed for flapless landing was approximately 149 knots, against the calculated speed of 130-135 knots. The incident occurred as the aircraft impacted the runway with higher speed while executing a flapless approach and landing.