Date: 29th November 2024
Location: Sapporo New Chitose Airport, Japan
Aircraft: Airbus A321-200 Freighter, registration JA82YA
Operator: Spring Airlines Japan
Flight Number: IJ-407
Route: Tokyo Narita to Sapporo New Chitose, Japan
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
In the early hours of 29th November 2024, a Spring Airlines Japan Airbus A321 freighter operating as flight IJ-407 was on final approach to Sapporo New Chitose Airport’s Runway 01R when a construction vehicle inadvertently entered the active runway. Despite the incursion, the aircraft continued its landing and touched down safely.
The Japan Transport Safety Board (TSB) initiated an investigation into the occurrence to determine the causes of the runway incursion and ensure future safety measures are implemented.
Aircraft Information
The Airbus A321-200 Freighter is a narrow-body aircraft widely used for cargo operations, featuring advanced avionics and safety systems to support operational reliability.
Sequence of Events
1. Final Approach:
• Flight IJ-407 was cleared to land on Runway 01R just after midnight on 29th November 2024.
2. Runway Incursion:
• During the aircraft’s final approach phase, a construction vehicle entered Runway 01R without authorization, resulting in a runway incursion.
3. Landing Continuation:
• The aircraft continued its descent and landed safely on Runway 01R.
4. Investigation Initiation:
• Japan’s TSB was notified of the incident and opened an investigation to determine the causes and contributing factors.
Initial Findings
Potential Causes of Runway Incursion
1. Coordination Breakdown:
• A lapse in communication between air traffic control (ATC) and ground operations may have contributed to the unauthorized vehicle entry.
2. Procedure Non-Adherence:
• Failure to adhere to standard operating procedures for coordinating runway access during construction activities.
3. Human Error:
• Driver error or misunderstanding of clearance procedures may have led to the unauthorized entry.
Safety Risks
1. Collision Hazard:
• The presence of the vehicle on an active runway during landing presented a significant risk of collision with the approaching aircraft.
2. Operational Disruptions:
• Runway incursions can lead to disruptions in airport operations and potential delays in future flights.
3. Crew and Passenger Safety:
• The event could have resulted in injuries or fatalities if the aircraft had not landed safely.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Coordination Procedures:
• Strengthen coordination between ATC, airport ground operations, and contractors to prevent unauthorized runway access.
2. Driver Training:
• Provide comprehensive training for all personnel operating vehicles in or near active runway areas, emphasizing situational awareness and clearance protocols.
3. Runway Incursion Prevention Technology:
• Implement advanced incursion detection systems, such as ground radar or automatic vehicle monitoring, to alert ATC of unauthorized runway entries.
4. Audits and Compliance Checks:
• Conduct regular audits of airport operations and construction activities to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
5. Incident Simulation for Aircrew:
• Include runway incursion scenarios in simulator training for pilots to enhance decision-making and response strategies.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident highlights the critical importance of seamless coordination and stringent safety protocols in preventing runway incursions. The event serves as a reminder for airports worldwide to prioritize collaborative efforts between ATC, ground operations, and contractors to ensure runway safety.
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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.
