Introduction
On 3rd December 2024, an Airlink South Africa Embraer ERJ-190, registration ZS-YZB, encountered a wildlife hazard during landing at Hoedspruit Airport, South Africa. The aircraft, operating flight 4Z-657 from Cape Town to Hoedspruit, struck three impalas that unexpectedly crossed the runway during its landing roll on Runway 09. This report provides an analysis of the event, its contributing factors, and implications for aviation safety.
Incident Summary
• Date: 3rd December 2024
• Aircraft: Embraer ERJ-190
• Registration: ZS-YZB
• Operator: Airlink South Africa
• Flight Number: 4Z-657
• Route: Cape Town (CPT) to Hoedspruit (HDS)
• Passengers and Crew: Undisclosed, no injuries reported.
• Time of Incident: Approximately 11:04Z
During landing on Runway 09, a group of approximately 10 impalas crossed the runway. The aircraft collided with three of them, causing minor damage to the lower engine cover. The aircraft was able to vacate the runway safely and resumed service the following day.
Sequence of Events
1. Approach: The crew reported their estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the control tower as per standard procedure.
2. Runway Inspection Issue: The control tower attempted to dispatch a vehicle for a routine runway inspection before landing, but the vehicle’s radio was unserviceable. This rendered the inspection incomplete.
3. Visual Assessment: The flight crew visually inspected the runway during descent at 500 and 200 feet above ground level but observed no wildlife.
4. Landing: The aircraft touched down on Runway 09 at approximately 11:04Z. During the landing roll, more than 10 impalas crossed the runway unexpectedly.
5. Collision: The aircraft struck three impalas, which were left on the runway near a taxiway. The impact resulted in minor damage to the aircraft’s lower engine cover.
6. Post-Incident Actions: The aircraft vacated the runway at 11:24Z. A thorough inspection was conducted, and the aircraft returned to service the following day.
Initial Findings
According to South Africa’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA):
• The unavailability of a functional runway inspection vehicle contributed to the incident.
• The crew’s visual assessment from the aircraft was insufficient to detect wildlife at runway level.
• The impalas were not visible until the aircraft was already on the ground.
Impact and Recovery
• Damage: Minor damage to the lower engine cover.
• Operational Impact: The aircraft resumed service the next day with no disruption to subsequent operations.
• Safety Concerns: The presence of wildlife on the runway posed a significant safety risk. This incident highlights the need for robust wildlife management procedures at airports, particularly those near wildlife reserves.
Analysis
1. Wildlife Hazard Management: Hoedspruit Airport, being in proximity to natural reserves, is at a higher risk for wildlife intrusions. The lack of a functioning communication system for runway inspection exacerbated the risk.
2. Crew Decision-Making: The crew made appropriate efforts to visually inspect the runway. However, wildlife hazards can be difficult to detect without ground-based support.
3. Mitigation Measures: Improved runway monitoring systems, such as thermal imaging cameras or radar, could provide real-time alerts for wildlife presence.
Recommendations
1. Enhance Wildlife Management: Deploy dedicated wildlife control teams equipped with effective communication tools and vehicles.
2. Improve Surveillance Systems: Invest in advanced monitoring technologies to detect and mitigate wildlife presence on runways.
3. Review Procedures: Update standard operating procedures to include mandatory confirmation of runway clearance before landings, particularly at airports in wildlife-prone areas.
4. Collaborate with Conservation Agencies: Engage with local wildlife authorities to develop strategies that minimize the risk of animal intrusions.
Disclaimer
This report is based on all available information at the time of writing and is intended for informational and educational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, additional details may emerge as investigations continue.
Prepared by: Cockpit King Aviation Safety Analysis Team
