In a recent and serious incident at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, an Embraer E195 (OY-GDC) operating on behalf of Air Serbia faced a perilous situation during take-off, resulting in substantial damage to its fuselage and wing box. The aircraft, managed by Marathon Airlines S.A., was en route to Dusseldorf when the incident occurred.
The Incident Unveiled:
As the aircraft ascended, it reportedly made contact with the runway approach lights, leading to significant damage. The severity of the situation prompted an immediate diversion back to Belgrade. However, the challenges didn't end there. The plane circled for nearly an hour, burning off fuel and performing a low pass over the runway, allowing ground staff to assess the condition of the aircraft before a cautious touchdown.
Impacts on Operations:
The incident had broader implications, with other aircraft grounded at Belgrade Airport, and incoming flights forced to divert to alternative airports. The repercussions were felt beyond the immediate incident, impacting the operations and schedules of various airlines.
Investigation and Unknowns:
Details surrounding how and why the aircraft made contact with the lights remain shrouded in mystery. Preliminary accounts, including air traffic control recordings, suggest that the pilot had limited runway remaining after opting not to use the full length of the strip, despite warnings from air traffic control.
Next Steps and Investigation:
The Serbian Civil Aviation Directorate, alongside other relevant authorities, is launching a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Given the seriousness of the situation, the incident is under careful scrutiny, and findings from the investigation will shed light on the sequence of events leading to the damage.
Air Serbia's Response:
Air Serbia promptly addressed the situation, assuring that the safety of passengers was never compromised. Despite the loud bang reported by passengers upon take-off, the aircraft landed safely, and no injuries were reported among the 106 passengers.
Conclusion:
As the investigation unfolds, questions linger about the decisions made in the cockpit and the factors contributing to this unexpected incident. The aviation community awaits the findings that will not only provide insights into this specific case but may also contribute to enhanced safety measures in the industry.