What happened
A scheduled passenger flight departed Dublin at 18:14 hrs, destined for Sheffield. The flight was operated by a crew with recent experience at the destination. During the descent, the crew received updated weather information indicating rain, snow, and low visibility. The aircraft, weighing approximately 11,100 kg, was cleared for an ILAS/DME approach to Runway 28.
As the aircraft progressed through the manual approach, the crew noted a brief flight director warning flag. While the de-ice boots were initially activated due to light icing, they were turned off as the temperature rose. During the final stages of the approach, the handling pilot observed a higher-than-expected rate of descent, which he initially attributed to a potential tailwind.
Upon reaching the decision height of 400 feet, both pilots observed the runway lights and confirmed the flaps at 30°. However, as the commander checked the control column, the descent rate increased significantly, leading to a firm touchdown. Witnesses, including personnel in the control tower, observed the aircraft appearing to travel at an excessive speed. The aircraft struck the ground with the left wing low, bounced multiple times, and eventually settled on the runway. The aircraft then veered left, exiting the paved surface and onto the grass, with the left wing tip making contact with the ground. All passengers were successfully evacuated by 19:25 hrs, and no fatalities or injuries were reported.
Findings
- The aircraft struck the runway with a high rate of descent and a low left wing.
- Witnesses observed the aircraft approaching the runway at a speed greater than normal.