Jetstream 31 runway excursion at Pajala Airport

Casualties unknown • Serious incident at Pajala Airport involving the aircraft ES-PJB of model Jetstream 3102, SE

A Jetstream 31 aircraft veered off the runway edge during landing at Pajala Airport, leading to an investigation into pilot perception and operator reporting failures.

What happened

On February 13, 2013, a Jetstream 31 operated by AS Avies, registration ES-PJB, was performing a scheduled commercial flight from Luleå/Kallax Airport to Pajala Airport. During the landing phase at Pajala, the aircraft touched down with its nose wheel and right main wheel positioned outside the asphalt edge of the runway. The aircraft continued to roll for approximately 200 meters on the unpaved surface before the crew managed to steer it back onto the runway. While the aircraft avoided hitting the runway edge lights, the incident occurred in darkness with low visibility due to snow showers and drifting snow.

The investigation

The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the flight history, aircraft maintenance records, and meteorological conditions. The investigation looked into the crew's performance, the technical state of the aircraft, and the airport's lighting and reporting procedures. Investigators also reviewed the operator's internal safety management and the delay in reporting the event to the Swedish Transport Agency.

Findings

  • The aircraft was technically sound with no malfunctions noted.
  • The runway lacked centerline lights, and the existing white markings were obscured by snow.
  • The runway edge lights were set to a high intensity (10% brightness), which likely caused a dazzling effect for the crew.
  • Deficient directional control during the final landing stage was the primary cause, exacerbated by perceptual illusions created by drifting snow and the glare from high-intensity lights.
  • The commander only provided a verbal notification to flight operations, and no formal written report was submitted to the authorities by the operator.
  • A required technical inspection of the aircraft following an abnormal landing was not performed.
  • The airport's report to the Swedish Transport Agency was delayed by 50 days.

Safety action

Due to identified deficiencies in the operator's safety management and reporting systems, SHK issued a formal letter to both the Estonian and Swedish regulatory authorities. The agency recommended that these regulators conduct a full operational and technical audit of the operator to ensure compliance with safety and reporting obligations.

Probable cause

The incident was caused by a loss of directional control during the final stage of landing, likely driven by perceptual illusions from drifting snow and the blinding effect of high-intensity runway lights.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-02-13 aircraft accident near Serious incident at Pajala Airport involving the aircraft ES-PJB of model Jetstream 3102, SE?

A Jetstream 31 aircraft veered off the runway edge during landing at Pajala Airport, leading to an investigation into pilot perception and operator reporting failures.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-02-13 involved a aircraft, registration ES-PJB, at Serious incident at Pajala Airport involving the aircraft ES-PJB of model Jetstream 3102, SE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The incident was caused by a loss of directional control during the final stage of landing, likely driven by perceptual illusions from drifting snow and the blinding effect of high-intensity runway lights.

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