The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has released its final report on the incident on the evening of 27 January 2023 when a Boeing 777 passenger aircraft veered off the runway at Auckland International Airport.
The veer-off likely happened because heavy rain contributed to a late transition from autopilot to manual control.
Since the incident, the aircraft’s operator, Air New Zealand, has amended its operational procedures and information and has provided training to reinforce the technique for smooth transition from autopilot to manual control.
“TAIC welcomes the safety actions taken by the operator and is making no new recommendations,” says TAIC Chief Investigator of Accidents Naveen Kozhuppakalam.
The Commission’s report describes how the Boeing 777, ZK-OKN was on a scheduled flight from Melbourne to Auckland. On approach to Auckland, it encountered heavy rain and the wind changed in direction and strength.
“The autopilot was disengaged at 67 feet (20 metres) above the runway, when the operator’s procedures suggested it occur at 300–600 feet (90–180 m),” said Mr Kozhuppakalam.
“It’s very likely there was insufficient time for the pilot to prevent the aircraft drifting away from the centre-line before landing and to stop it veering off the runway after landing.”
The pilot regained control, completed the landing, and taxied the aircraft to the airport terminal. There were no injuries.
TAIC found that the weather, while inclement, was above the minimum weather requirements throughout the approach and landing.
“This report is a lesson for all aircraft operators to ensure crews know and understand the operator’s and aircraft manuals and procedures and are thoroughly briefed.”