Date: 25th November 2024
Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Aircraft: Boeing 737-400, registration EC-MFE
Operator: Swiftair (operating for DHL)
Flight Number: QY-5960
Flight Route: Leipzig (Germany) to Vilnius (Lithuania)
Crew: 4
Fatalities: 1
Injuries: 3 (crew members)
Summary of Events
On 25th November 2024, Swiftair Flight QY-5960, a cargo flight operated on behalf of DHL, crashed during its final approach to Vilnius Airport. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-400, was performing an ILS approach to Runway 19 under routine communication with air traffic control until 4 nautical miles before the runway threshold.
The crew failed to check in with the tower after handoff from approach control. Shortly after, the aircraft impacted the ground 0.87 nautical miles before the runway threshold at approximately 05:28 local time (03:28Z). It skidded for 247 meters before striking a two-story residential building 0.74 nautical miles from the threshold.
The crash resulted in the death of one pilot and injuries to three crew members, one of whom remains in critical condition. The residential building sustained roof damage and a fire but, fortunately, the 12 occupants were unharmed.
Aircraft and Crew Information
Aircraft
The Boeing 737-400 (registration EC-MFE) was a freighter configuration operated by Swiftair for DHL. Known for its reliability, the aircraft is commonly used for short- and medium-haul cargo flights.
Crew
The flight carried four crew members:
• Captain: 48, Spanish (deceased)
• First Officer: 34, German (hospitalized)
• Loadmasters: One Lithuanian and one Spanish, both injured
Sequence of Events
1. Descent and Approach:
• Flight QY-5960 was performing a routine ILS approach to Runway 19 at Vilnius Airport.
• Communication with ATC was routine until handoff to tower, after which the crew did not establish contact.
2. Ground Impact and Skid:
• The aircraft impacted the ground approximately 0.87 nautical miles before the runway threshold, skidding 247 meters before colliding with a residential building.
3. Fire and Emergency Response:
• The aircraft burst into flames upon collision with the building.
• Emergency services extinguished the fire and rescued the crew.
4. Injuries and Fatalities:
• One pilot was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Three other crew members were hospitalized, with one in critical condition.
Initial Investigation and Findings
1. Technical Factors
• Preliminary ADS-B data indicates the aircraft was below the correct glidepath altitude.
• Last recorded altitude: 253 feet, while it should have been approximately 336 feet on the glidepath.
• Recorded descent rate: 972 feet per minute at 149 knots ground speed, suggesting a potential loss of control or mismanagement of approach.
2. Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorders
• The CVR and FDR were recovered from the wreckage on 26th November 2024 and are expected to provide critical insights.
3. Structural and Environmental Factors
• The crash site elevation (675 feet MSL) and runway elevation (647 feet MSL) indicate a very shallow descent below glidepath.
• Weather conditions at the time have not been reported as a significant factor.
4. Possible Causes
The Lithuanian TAIIB, along with the US NTSB, German BFU, and Spanish CIAIAC, is investigating possible causes, including:
• Human Error: Potential mismanagement of altitude, airspeed, or situational awareness during final approach.
• Technical Malfunction: Possible failure of flight control systems or navigational aids.
• Sabotage or External Factors: While unlikely, the investigation remains open to all possibilities.
Impact on the Ground
• Damage: A two-story residential building sustained roof damage and a fire.
• Residents: All 12 occupants of the building escaped unharmed due to the rapid response of emergency services.
Ongoing Investigation
Current Status
• On-site evidence collection is expected to conclude within 2–3 days.
• Authorities have interviewed 19 witnesses, including local residents and airport personnel.
Expected Timeline
• The aviation safety investigation may take up to a year to conclude.
• The parallel law enforcement investigation is expected to finish sooner.
Conclusions
The crash of Swiftair Flight QY-5960 underscores the complexity of approach and landing phases, where a combination of human, technical, and environmental factors can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
While preliminary data suggests the aircraft was below the glidepath, further analysis of the CVR, FDR, and other evidence will be crucial in determining the root causes and contributing factors.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Training for Precision Approaches:
• Emphasize training on ILS approaches and recovery techniques for unstable descents.
2. Maintenance and Monitoring of Navigation Aids:
• Ensure the reliability of ILS systems and onboard navigation aids through rigorous maintenance protocols.
3. Airport Hazard Mitigation:
• Strengthen safeguards near approach paths to minimize risks to surrounding structures and residents.
4. Crew Resource Management (CRM):
• Reinforce CRM training to improve situational awareness and coordination during critical phases of flight.
Safety Lessons and Industry Impact
This incident highlights the risks associated with low-altitude flight operations during final approach. The findings from this investigation are expected to enhance safety measures for both cargo and passenger flights, particularly in complex approach environments.
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.
