What happened
On 20 February 2007, a CityJet BAe 146-200, registration EI-CZO, was performing a landing at London City Airport. During the approach to Runway 10, the flight crew utilized an incorrect approach reference speed (VREF) of 119 kt, whereas the correct speed for the aircraft's actual weight should have been 103 kt. The aircraft touched down at the far end of the touchdown zone with a zero-degree pitch attitude.
Following touchdown, the commander applied the wheel brakes but, perceiving a lack of deceleration, believed the braking system had failed. In response, the commander engaged the emergency braking system. This action deactivated the anti-skid protection. As the aircraft continued to roll, the main wheels locked up, leading to the bursting of all four main landing gear tyres. The aircraft eventually came to a halt on the paved surface, having overrun the declared landing distance available by approximately 160 m.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's systems and the crew's actions. It was determined that the lift spoilers failed to deploy during the landing roll, despite the system being fully functional. The investigation found that the commander's use of the emergency brake system, which lacks anti-skid protection, was a critical factor in the tyre failures. Additionally, the investigation looked into the cockpit ergonomics, specifically the force required to move the airbrake/lift spoiler lever. It was discovered that a previous modification intended to increase the resistance of this lever had not been implemented on EI-CZO, making it possible for the lever to move away from the activation position due to vibration or inadvertent movement.
Findings
- The incorrect determination of the approach reference speed caused the aircraft to land significantly faster than necessary.
- The selection of the emergency braking system removed anti-skid protection, causing the main wheels to lock and the tyres to burst.
- The lift spoilers did not deploy, which hindered the effective transfer of aircraft weight to the wheels for braking.
- The lack of resistance in the lift spoiler lever position allowed it to move from the activation point during the landing roll.
- The aircraft overran the landing distance available due to the combination of high speed, non-deployment of spoilers, and improper braking technique.