What happened
On 2 January 2005, a Saab-Scania AB SF340B, registration G-LGNH, was parked at Sumburgh Airport in the Shetland Isles, preparing for a scheduled passenger flight to Aberdeen. The aircraft was facing into a wind that was gusting up to 52 knots. During the engine start sequence, as the propeller condition levers were advanced, the aircraft pitched backwards, causing the tail to strike the ground. The crew immediately shut down both engines, after which the aircraft returned to a normal attitude. There were no injuries to the 3 crew members or 29 passengers on board, and the aircraft sustained only minor damage to a bracket used for a tail stand.
The investigation
The investigation examined the weight and balance calculations and the loading procedures used for the flight. It was discovered that the handling agent had provided the pilot with passenger, baggage, and cargo weights based on standard notional values rather than actual weights. While the pilot had prepared a manual load sheet to maintain the centre of gravity (CG) within the operator's limits, an error in the cargo loading process occurred. Specifically, a cargo net in the forward compartment had been improperly secured, allowing baggage to shift against the rear bulkhead.
Furthermore, the investigation found that three passengers had relocated from their assigned seats to Row 13, a seating area located in the cargo hold area of this specific aircraft. This movement, combined with the shifting baggage, significantly altered the aircraft's balance.
Findings
- The aircraft's centre of gravity was pushed significantly aft of the manufacturer's limits.
- Incorrect baggage loading and the unauthorized movement of passengers were the primary drivers of the extreme aft CG.
- The handling agent provided standard weights instead of actual weights for the SF340 operation.
- The cargo net was not fastened correctly, allowing weight to shift toward the rear bulkhead.
- Three passengers were seated in the cargo area rather than their allocated passenger seats.
Safety action
Following the incident, the operator issued several recommendations:
- The aircraft commander should receive written verification that the cargo hold has been loaded according to instructions.
- The Cabin Services manual should be updated to prohibit moving passengers without the captain's explicit permission.
- Cabin crew must confirm the final passenger distribution to the commander before departure.