Date: 10th November 2024
Location: El Dorado International Airport, Bogota, Colombia
Aircraft: Boeing 727-200F, registration HK-5216
Operator: Aerosucre
Flight Number: A4-372
Route: Bogota (BOG) to Valencia (Venezuela)
Occupants: 6 crew
Injuries: None reported
Damage: Substantial damage to aircraft and airport infrastructure
Summary of Events
On 10th November 2024, an Aerosucre Boeing 727-200 freighter, performing a cargo flight from Bogota to Valencia, experienced a runway overrun during takeoff from runway 14L at El Dorado International Airport. The aircraft became airborne after the overrun and collided with the ILS localizer antenna. Despite sustaining damage to its left wing and landing gear, the crew managed to stabilize the aircraft, burn off fuel, and return for a safe landing on runway 14R approximately one hour after departure.
The Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Division (DIACC) launched an investigation and released a preliminary report highlighting adverse takeoff conditions and operational shortcomings as contributing factors.
Sequence of Events
1. Pre-Takeoff Conditions:
• The aircraft faced a tailwind of 12 knots, making takeoff conditions unfavourable.
• After a 15-minute delay, ATC reported wind improvement to 280 degrees at 9 knots, prompting the crew to proceed with the takeoff.
2. Takeoff Roll and Overrun:
• A rolling takeoff was initiated, consuming the entire length of the runway.
• The aircraft overran the runway threshold and struck the ILS localizer antenna, causing a loud bang that the crew attributed to possible landing gear damage.
3. Post-Takeoff Maneuvers:
• The crew stopped the climb at 15,000 feet, reported potential landing gear damage, and requested a return to Bogota.
• Fuel was burned to reach the aircraft’s maximum landing weight.
4. Landing and Inspection:
• The aircraft landed on runway 14R without further incident.
• Inspection revealed damage to the left inboard main wheel, left flaps, and left slats, among other components.
Investigation Findings
Primary Causes:
1. Adverse Takeoff Conditions:
• A tailwind of 9-12 knots significantly reduced the effective runway length and takeoff performance.
2. Operational Decision-Making:
• The crew’s decision to commence takeoff in marginal conditions contributed to the runway overrun.
Contributing Factors:
1. Rolling Takeoff:
• A rolling takeoff, instead of a static takeoff, limited acceleration and increased runway consumption.
2. Inadequate Safety Margins:
• The aircraft’s takeoff performance was not optimized for the prevailing wind conditions.
Safety Risks
1. Runway Excursion:
• Overruns during takeoff pose risks to aircraft occupants, infrastructure, and operational continuity.
2. Structural Damage and Airworthiness:
• Collision with airport infrastructure can compromise the aircraft’s structural integrity and safety systems.
3. Operational Delays:
• The ILS antenna damage affected airport operations, potentially disrupting flight schedules.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Pre-Takeoff Assessments:
• Crews must evaluate tailwind limitations and opt for static takeoffs when required to optimize performance.
2. Operational Awareness:
• Airlines should reinforce training on decision-making in adverse conditions and emphasize the importance of safety margins.
3. Infrastructure Protection:
• Airports should consider protective barriers around critical navigational aids to minimize damage during overruns or excursions.
4. Improved Communication:
• Strengthen coordination between ATC and flight crews to ensure accurate reporting of real-time wind conditions.
Safety Lessons
This accident underscores the importance of operational vigilance, especially in challenging takeoff conditions. Adhering to conservative performance margins and optimizing takeoff techniques can significantly reduce the risk of runway overruns and related incidents.
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.
