Date: 19th November 2024
Location: Vancouver International Airport, Canada
Aircraft: Boeing 767-300, registration C-GAZI
Operator: Cargojet (operating for Amazon Prime Air)
Flight Number: W8-2387
Flight Route: Hamilton (Ontario) to Vancouver (British Columbia)
Crew: 2
Passengers: None (cargo flight)
Summary of Events
On 19th November 2024, Cargojet Flight W8-2387, a Boeing 767-300 operating for Amazon Prime Air, encountered flaps issues during its approach to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The malfunction necessitated a high-speed landing on Runway 08L, with a ground speed of 175 knots. The aircraft overran the runway by 572 meters (1,877 feet) and suffered a nose gear collapse upon exiting the paved surface.
Emergency services were on standby, responding promptly to the incident. Both runways at Vancouver International Airport were temporarily closed, with Runway 08R reopening shortly after the occurrence. Investigations by Canadian aviation authorities are underway to determine the cause of the flaps malfunction and runway overrun.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The Boeing 767-300 is a long-range, wide-body freighter commonly used for cargo operations. The specific aircraft, registration C-GAZI, was operated by Cargojet under a partnership with Amazon Prime Air, specializing in e-commerce logistics.
The crew consisted of two experienced pilots trained for high-stress scenarios, including flap system failures. Their decision-making during the emergency ensured that the landing, though resulting in an overrun, avoided injuries or significant collateral damage.
Sequence of Events
1. Approach to Vancouver:
The flight proceeded normally until the approach phase, when the crew identified a malfunction in the flap system. Unable to deploy flaps to their intended position, the crew declared a PAN PAN, later escalating to Mayday, as the flap issue significantly increased the required landing speed.
2. Landing on Runway 08L:
The Boeing 767 touched down at a ground speed of 175 knots on Runway 08L. Despite the crew’s use of all available braking systems and reverse thrust, the aircraft overran the runway by 572 meters, coming to rest on soft ground.
3. Nose Gear Collapse:
The nose gear collapsed as the aircraft exited the paved surface, causing significant structural damage to the forward fuselage and landing gear assembly.
4. Emergency Response:
Emergency services were on standby and responded immediately. Both crew members evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported.
Initial Investigation and Findings
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has initiated an investigation into the incident. Key areas of focus include:
1. Flap System Malfunction:
• Inspecting the flap mechanism for signs of mechanical failure, sensor errors, or hydraulic issues.
• Reviewing maintenance records for any deferred or incomplete repairs.
2. Runway Excursion:
• Evaluating the decision to land at Vancouver given the increased landing speed and runway length requirements.
• Assessing the effectiveness of braking systems and reverse thrust during the landing roll.
3. Landing Gear Collapse:
• Investigating whether the high-speed landing or runway overrun contributed to the structural failure of the nose gear.
4. Crew Decision-Making:
• Analyzing the crew’s response to the flap malfunction and their management of the high-speed landing.
Runway and Weather Conditions
Runway 08L at Vancouver International Airport has an available landing distance of approximately 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). While sufficient for most Boeing 767 landings, the high approach speed significantly reduced the margin for error. Weather conditions at the time were reported as overcast with light rain, potentially contributing to reduced braking effectiveness.
Passenger and Crew Impact
The aircraft carried no passengers, as it was a dedicated cargo flight. Both crew members evacuated without injury. The cargo onboard was secured, with no reported loss or damage to goods.
Conclusions
The runway overrun and nose gear collapse of Cargojet Flight W8-2387 highlight the challenges posed by in-flight system malfunctions during critical phases of flight. The crew’s professional handling of the situation prevented injuries and limited damage, though the incident underscores the importance of robust maintenance protocols and contingency planning for flap-related emergencies.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Maintenance Inspections:
• Airlines should prioritize rigorous inspections of flap systems, particularly for older aircraft operating frequent cargo flights.
2. Simulator Training for High-Speed Landings:
• Flight crews should receive regular training to handle high-speed landings resulting from flap system failures or similar emergencies.
3. Runway Safety Enhancements:
• Airports should consider additional safety features, such as engineered materials arrestor systems (EMAS), to mitigate the impact of runway overruns.
4. Incident Reporting and Analysis:
• Operators should collaborate with regulatory authorities to share findings from similar incidents, enhancing industry-wide safety measures.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident emphasizes the importance of preparedness for landing gear and flap malfunctions, especially during high-speed landings. The findings will contribute to improved training, maintenance, and operational procedures, ensuring safer outcomes in similar scenarios across the aviation industry.
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
