The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has released its report into an incident involving an Air New Zealand Boeing 777, where it veered off the runway while landing at Auckland Airport during heavy rain.
The aircraft, registration ZK-OKN, was operating a scheduled Air New Zealand flight from Melbourne to Auckland on the evening of Friday 27 January 2023.
On approach to Auckland, it encountered heavy rain and the wind changed in direction and strength.
As the plane neared the runway, it began to drift right of the runway centreline. Soon after touchdown, it veered off the runway onto a sealed shoulder and struck six runway edge lights.
The pilot regained control and taxied to the gate. There were no injuries.
An inspection of the aircraft revealed that five of the six right landing gear tyres were damaged and one had deflated. There was also damage to the right brake assembly and wiring harness.
The report found that the heavy rain encountered during the approach to Auckland likely influenced the decision to disengage the autopilot at a relatively low altitude. This decision, combined with the flying technique used by the pilot, very likely resulted in there being insufficient time to correct the aircraft’s flightpath before touchdown. As a result, the aircraft drifted from the runway centreline and the pilot was unable to prevent it from veering off the runway after landing.
While the weather was poor, it remained above the minimum thresholds required for the approach and landing. Imagery from a shore-based camera captured the aircraft on final approach, showing heavy rain and low visibility. The aircraft was configured for landing, with landing gear extended and flaps deployed, and the approach lights visible ahead through rain-streaked conditions.
Aircraft operator manuals and procedures are designed to ensure safe operations in both normal and adverse conditions. A sound understanding of these materials, supported by an effective recurrent training programme, plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of adverse outcomes.
It said the cohesive functioning of flight crews is equally important, particularly in managing unexpected situations. A well-conducted briefing, as part of core crew resource management practices, helps ensure all members of the crew share a common understanding of the flight plan, potential risks, and key factors, enabling them to respond effectively and minimise risk.
In the report summary, the TAIC welcomed safety actions by the aircraft’s operator and is making no new recommendations.
“Since the incident, operator Air New Zealand has amended its operational procedures and information. and it has provided training to reinforce the technique for the smooth transition from autopilot to manual control,” the report said.
