On November 23, 1988, a Vickers Viscount (registration G-BBVH) operated by Gibraltar Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Tangier-Boukhalef, Morocco during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The assumption that the loss of control was the consequence of aquaplaning was not ruled out. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A four-engine aircraft veered off runway 28 at Tangier-Boukhalef Airport after landing in heavy rain and gusty winds. All 78 occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident Overview
On approach to Tangier-Boukhalef Airport, the aircraft encountered heavy rainfall with wind from 060 degrees gusting to 24 knots. After touchdown on a wet runway, the crew experienced difficulties in decelerating the aircraft. The four-engine jet continued along the runway for approximately 1,000 meters before veering off to the left and coming to rest in a ditch.
Occupants and Damage
All 78 occupants evacuated without injury. However, the aircraft sustained damage beyond economical repair.
Runway and Weather Conditions
Runway 28 was wet at the time of the incident. The prevailing wind was from 060 degrees with gusts reaching 24 knots. Heavy rain was falling during the approach and landing.
Probable cause
The assumption that the loss of control was the consequence of aquaplaning was not ruled out.
