Overview
• Operator: Ajet
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: TC-SOG
• Flight Number: VF-4268
• Route: Ankara (ESB) → Rize (RZV), Turkey
• Date: 1 March 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Casualties: None
• Nature of Incident: Incorrect go-around turn towards high terrain before correction
Incident Summary
An Ajet Boeing 737-800 operating flight VF-4268 from Ankara to Rize executed a go-around after being significantly above the correct approach path.
Instead of following the standard missed approach procedure (which required a left turn over the Black Sea), the crew turned right towards rising terrain.
The aircraft climbed slowly through 3,000 feet while heading towards mountains reaching 9,200 feet.
The crew corrected their course, turning left back towards the Black Sea, climbed to 6,000 feet, and safely repositioned for another approach.
The aircraft subsequently landed without further incident.
The return flight VF-4269 to Ankara operated on schedule.
Sequence of Events
Approach & Go-Around Decision:
• The aircraft was on final approach to Rize’s runway 06.
• The crew realized they were 1,700 feet too high on the approach profile.
• At about 2.3 nm from the threshold, they initiated a go-around.
Incorrect Turn Towards High Terrain:
• Instead of turning left towards the Black Sea (as per the missed approach procedure), the crew turned right towards high terrain rising to 9,200 feet (2,800 meters).
• The aircraft climbed slowly through 3,000 feet, significantly below the terrain elevation.
• The crew then realized their incorrect turn and corrected back towards the Black Sea.
Recovery & Safe Landing:
• The aircraft continued climbing to 6,000 feet.
• The crew repositioned the aircraft for a second approach, following a correct 3-degree glide path.
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 06.
Potential Causes & Contributing Factors
1. Crew Awareness & Procedure Misinterpretation
• The go-around was performed due to being too high on approach.
• The crew did not follow the standard missed approach procedure and instead turned towards terrain.
• Possible momentary confusion in situational awareness could have contributed to the incorrect turn.
2. Navigation & Terrain Avoidance Considerations
• Rize Airport is surrounded by mountainous terrain, requiring precise adherence to missed approach procedures.
• Incorrect turns in this environment pose significant safety risks.
• The aircraft’s initial slow climb rate exacerbated the risk.
3. Weather Conditions & External Factors
• Light rain showers and low cloud cover (BKN007-028) were reported, potentially affecting visibility.
• Winds were variable but relatively light, making it unlikely that wind drift played a role in the incorrect turn.
Investigation & Safety Considerations
Critical Risks Identified:
• Deviation from the published missed approach procedure in a high-terrain environment.
• Slow climb rate while turning towards rising terrain.
• Potential confusion or distraction within the cockpit leading to an incorrect turn.
Recommendations for Future Safety Measures:
1. Reinforcement of Go-Around & Missed Approach Procedures
• Strict adherence to prescribed missed approach paths in terrain-critical airports.
• Use of terrain awareness and warning systems (EGPWS/TAWS) to prevent hazardous turns.
2. Crew Training & Situational Awareness
• Enhanced training for terrain avoidance in non-precision approach environments.
• Immediate verification of direction during go-arounds, particularly in mountainous airports.
3. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Review
• Company review of go-around procedures at terrain-critical airports such as Rize.
• Increased monitoring by airline safety teams for compliance with missed approach procedures.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to go-around procedures, especially in airports surrounded by high terrain.
The Ajet crew initially turned in the wrong direction, potentially putting the aircraft in danger, before correcting their course back towards the Black Sea.
The safe resolution of the incident demonstrates the importance of situational awareness, terrain monitoring, and adherence to prescribed missed approach procedures.
A detailed review of the flight data and cockpit voice recordings may provide additional insights into the crew’s decision-making process.
The aircraft continued normal operations after the incident, and the return flight VF-4269 operated on schedule.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 4 March 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
