Date: November 25th, 2024
Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Aircraft: Boeing 737-400, registration EC-MFE
Operator: Swiftair on behalf of DHL
Flight Number: QY-5960
Route: Leipzig, Germany, to Vilnius, Lithuania
Occupants: 4 crew
Fatalities: 1 (pilot)
Injuries: 3 crew injured, one critically
Ground Injuries: None
Summary of Events
On November 25th, 2024, Swiftair Flight QY-5960, a cargo flight operated on behalf of DHL, was conducting an ILS approach to Vilnius Airport’s Runway 19. Communication with air traffic control (ATC) was routine until approximately 4 nautical miles (nm) from the runway threshold when the crew failed to check in on the tower frequency. The tower issued a blind landing clearance, but shortly after, the aircraft descended below the glidepath and impacted terrain approximately 0.87 nm before the runway threshold.
The aircraft skidded for about 247 meters and collided with a two-story residential building. The building sustained significant roof damage and caught fire. Despite the damage, no injuries were reported among the 12 residents. One crew member (the captain) was fatally injured, and the other three crew members were hospitalized with varying degrees of injuries.
The aircraft burst into flames following the impact, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Sequence of Events
1. Approach and Communication:
• The flight conducted a stabilized ILS approach until 4 nm from the threshold. Communication with ATC ceased after the handoff to the tower.
2. Descent Below Glidepath:
• ADS-B data indicated the aircraft descended below the glidepath, reaching an altitude of 253 feet where it should have been at 336 feet, given the 3° glidepath.
3. Impact:
• The aircraft first made ground contact at an elevation of 675 feet MSL, skidding before striking a residential building 0.74 nm from the runway threshold.
4. Rescue Operations:
• Emergency services responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire and rescuing the crew.
5. Investigation Initiation:
• Lithuania’s Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (TAIIB) initiated the investigation, supported by the US NTSB, German BFU, and Spanish CIAIAC.
Preliminary Findings
1. Flight Data and CVR Analysis:
• Data recovered from the cockpit voice and flight data recorders showed no evidence of unlawful interference.
• Conversations indicated no signs of distress or emergencies before the accident.
2. Descent Profile:
• ADS-B data revealed a descent rate averaging 972 feet per minute (fpm) and a ground speed of 149 knots, suggesting an unstable approach.
3. Environmental and Technical Factors:
• The weather at the time of the incident was within operational limits.
• Initial inspections showed no external influence, such as sabotage or terrorism.
4. Building Damage and Ground Safety:
• The residential building suffered roof damage and fire, but all 12 occupants escaped without injury.
Safety Recommendations
1. Approach Stability Training:
• Reinforce stabilized approach criteria and go-around decision-making in crew training programs.
2. ATC Communication Protocols:
• Ensure robust communication handoff procedures to mitigate risks during critical phases of flight.
3. Residential Proximity to Runways:
• Evaluate and improve zoning laws around airports to minimize risk to populated areas.
4. Investigation of Aircraft Systems:
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the aircraft’s autopilot, flight control, and navigation systems for potential malfunctions.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities, including Lithuania’s TAIIB, are continuing their analysis to determine the exact cause of the accident. The investigation is expected to conclude within a year. Meanwhile, all evidence collected, including eyewitness accounts and ADS-B data, points toward potential human error or technical malfunction during the approach.
Impact and Aftermath
• Crew Impact:
• One fatality and three injuries among the crew.
• Aircraft Damage:
• The Boeing 737-400 sustained substantial damage, rendering it a total loss.
• Community Response:
• The incident underscores the need for rigorous adherence to safety protocols, especially in areas surrounding airports.
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.
