Overview
• Operator: GoJet Airlines on behalf of United Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Canadair CRJ-550
• Registration: N549GJ
• Flight Number: UA-4427
• Route: Washington Dulles (DC) → St. Louis (MO), USA
• Date: 12 February 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Nature of Incident: Runway excursion after landing
Incident Summary
GoJet Airlines flight UA-4427, operated by a Canadair CRJ-550 (N549GJ), was performing a scheduled domestic service from Washington Dulles to St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The aircraft landed safely on runway 11 at approximately 10:50 a.m. local time, but while attempting to exit the runway, it skidded off the paved surface due to icy and snowy conditions.
There were no reported injuries, and all passengers exited the aircraft onto the taxiway before being bused to the terminal. The runway was temporarily closed for recovery operations.
Sequence of Events
Landing & Excursion
1. Approach & Touchdown:
• The aircraft performed a normal approach and landing on runway 11 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport.
• Weather conditions at the time included light snow, visibility reductions, and freezing temperatures.
2. Runway Exit & Skidding Incident:
• While attempting to exit the runway at the last taxiway, the aircraft lost traction due to wet and icy conditions and skidded off the paved surface.
• The aircraft came to a stop off the taxiway, requiring assistance from airport operations.
3. Passenger Disembarkation & Runway Closure:
• The passengers were safely evacuated onto the taxiway and transported via bus to the airport terminal.
• Runway 11 was temporarily closed due to the incident, affecting airport operations.
FAA & Investigation Status
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released a statement, confirming that:
• “GoJet Airlines Flight 4427 slid off a taxiway after arriving at St. Louis Lambert International Airport around 10:50 a.m. local time on Wednesday, February 12. Passengers exited the aircraft onto the taxiway and were bused to the terminal. The FAA will investigate.”
The aircraft remained on the ground for 19 hours after landing.
Weather Conditions at Time of Incident
According to METAR reports from St. Louis Lambert International Airport, weather conditions included:
• Light snow and mist reducing visibility to 1.75–4 miles
• Overcast skies and cloud cover at low altitudes
• Temperatures near freezing (0°C to -1°C)
• Runway conditions reported as 100% wet and de-iced
Possible Contributing Factors
1. Icy Runway and Taxiway Conditions
• Snow and ice accumulation on the taxiway may have led to reduced braking efficiency and loss of traction during the turn-off.
• Runway FICON (Friction Condition Reports) indicated 5/5/5 (wet surface, de-iced liquid applied), meaning conditions were less than optimal.
2. Reduced Visibility & Pilot Decision-Making
• Visibility was limited due to snow and mist, which may have contributed to a misjudgment of braking action and steering control while exiting.
3. Aircraft Weight Distribution & Skid Dynamics
• Regional jets like the CRJ-550 are known to be susceptible to skidding or sliding on icy surfaces, especially when turning at low speeds.
Preventative Measures & Recommendations
• Enhanced Braking & Steering Procedures
• Crews should exercise caution when turning off icy or wet runways, especially in snowy conditions.
• Increased reliance on manual braking techniques and thrust reversers could help maintain control.
• Runway Exit Planning & Awareness
• Pilots should consider alternative exit taxiways or hold position until better traction is available if conditions are unsafe.
• Enhanced Winter Operations Training
• Simulator-based training for pilots to practice runway excursions and recovery techniques in winter conditions.
Conclusion
While the aircraft landed safely, the runway excursion highlights the challenges of winter operations, particularly when taxiways are wet and icy. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and passengers were safely transported to the terminal. The FAA will conduct a formal investigation into the incident.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 13 February 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.
