What happened
On December 20, 2003, a Gol Transportes Aéreos Boeing 737-76N, registration PR-GOO, was operating flight GOL 1756 from Congonhas to Navegantes. While the flight was initially planned for a visual approach, deteriorating weather conditions necessitated an instrument approach. As the aircraft approached runway 25, heavy rain significantly reduced visibility, and the crew requested a change in approach due to the presence of Cumulus Nimbus clouds.
During the final approach, the aircraft experienced significant tailwind variations, ranging from 14 to 20 knots. The aircraft remained above the prescribed glidepath throughout the approach. The landing was long, with the aircraft touching down 750 meters past the runway threshold. Despite the use of maximum reverse thrust and full braking, the aircraft could not stop within the remaining 950 meters of the runway. The aircraft exited the paved surface, traveled across the grass overrun area, and collided with the airport's perimeter wall. All 148 occupants (6 crew and 142 passengers) evacuated the aircraft without injury, though the aircraft sustained severe damage to the nose gear, left engine, and flaps.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the aircraft's performance, the meteorological conditions, and the crew's decision-making. Investigators examined the flight data recorders (DFDR and DCVR), which were found to be in perfect working order. The investigation also included a technical analysis of the aircraft's tires and brakes. While the tires showed significant wear and some damage, the investigation found no evidence of hydroplaning or sudden braking that would have caused the overrun. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was carrying 2,000 kg of excess fuel beyond the planned amount, which impacted the landing performance calculations.
Findings
- Adverse weather conditions: Strong tailwind components and a wet runway surface degraded braking effectiveness.
- Improper landing decision: The pilot in command made an inadequate judgment by attempting a landing on a short, wet runway with a significant tailwind while remaining above the glidepath.
- Deficient cockpit coordination: There was a lack of situational awareness from the pilot flying and a lack of assertiveness from the co-pilot, who failed to suggest a missed approach despite identifying the tailwind and high altitude.
- Inadequate flight planning: The crew failed to properly analyze runway requirements prior to approach and did not sufficiently consider the stopping distance required given the aircraft's weight and the environmental conditions.