Date: 28th November 2024
Location: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Hungary
Aircraft: Airbus A320-200, registration SX-DVV
Operator: Aegean Airlines
Flight Number: A3-876
Route: Athens, Greece, to Budapest, Hungary
Passengers and Crew: Not disclosed
Injuries: None
Summary of Events
On 28th November 2024, Aegean Airlines Flight A3-876, an Airbus A320-200 operating from Athens to Budapest, experienced a runway excursion while attempting to vacate Runway 13R at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport.
The aircraft landed without incident and slowed to taxi speed; however, while turning onto Taxiway A2, the aircraft skidded, with the nose gear becoming lodged in soft ground adjacent to the paved surface. The runway was temporarily closed, and a subsequent arriving flight was instructed to go around.
Approximately 45 minutes later, the aircraft was pushed back onto the taxiway and towed to the apron. Preliminary information from the airport indicates the crew reported a possible brake system failure during taxiing.
Aircraft and Crew Information
Aircraft
The Airbus A320-200 is a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft commonly used for short- to medium-haul routes. The aircraft features advanced braking and anti-skid systems designed to maintain directional control and reduce skidding during landing and taxiing.
Crew
The flight was operated by an experienced crew. The crew followed standard procedures during landing and taxiing and promptly reported the braking issue to air traffic control.
Sequence of Events
1. Landing:
• The aircraft performed a routine landing on Runway 13R, slowing to taxi speed after touchdown.
2. Turn onto Taxiway A2:
• While turning onto Taxiway A2, the aircraft skidded, and the nose gear exited the paved surface, becoming stuck in soft ground.
3. Runway Closure:
• The incident led to the temporary closure of Runway 13R, and at least one arriving flight was instructed to go around.
4. Recovery:
• Approximately 45 minutes after the incident, ground crews pushed the aircraft back onto the paved surface and towed it to the apron.
Initial Investigation Findings
Possible Brakes Failure
• The crew reported a brakes failure while taxiing, which may have contributed to the loss of directional control during the turn.
Environmental Conditions
• Surface conditions on the runway and taxiway at the time of the incident are under review to determine if factors such as wet or slippery pavement contributed to the skidding.
Aircraft Systems
• Investigators are examining the aircraft’s braking and anti-skid systems for potential malfunctions or anomalies that could have impacted performance.
Potential Risks and Consequences
1. Runway Incursion:
• The aircraft’s partial departure from the paved surface posed a risk to runway operations and subsequent arrivals.
2. Aircraft Damage:
• While no structural damage was reported, the incident could have caused stress to the landing gear or braking systems.
3. Operational Disruption:
• The temporary runway closure delayed subsequent flights and necessitated a go-around for at least one arriving aircraft.
Recommendations
1. Aircraft Inspection:
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the braking and anti-skid systems to identify any malfunctions or anomalies.
2. Runway and Taxiway Condition Assessment:
• Review the surface conditions at the time of the incident, including friction levels, to determine if environmental factors contributed to the skidding.
3. Crew Training and Procedures:
• Reinforce training for handling potential braking failures during landing and taxiing, including alternative strategies for maintaining directional control.
4. Incident Reporting and Analysis:
• Share findings with other operators to enhance awareness of risks associated with taxiway turns at low speeds.
5. Airport Safety Enhancements:
• Evaluate the need for additional markings or lighting to guide aircraft during taxiway turns, especially in challenging conditions.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident highlights the critical importance of functional braking systems and the challenges of maintaining directional control during taxiing. Findings from the investigation are expected to inform maintenance practices, operational training, and airport infrastructure improvements to prevent similar occurrences.
Disclaimer
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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.
