Bombardier is seeking to make crosswind instruction a training area of special emphasis (TASE) for the Global fleet, according to a UK Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) report released today. The agency’s report relates to a serious wingtip-strike incident involving a Global 6000 during a landing attempt in gusty conditions at London Luton Airport (EGGW) on April 7, 2022.
The Global 6000, registered as LX-NST, was being flown by the then-new-to-type copilot when the right wing made contact with Runway 25 at EGGW, causing damage to the wingtip, flap fairing, aileron, and slat. The incident occurred during a balked landing in which the pitch and roll combination was sufficient for the wing to touch the runway for approximately 18 meters (60 feet), the AAIB said.
“The risk of wingtip contact is well known in this aircraft type and has been the subject of numerous previous reports, including by the AAIB,” the agency noted. “As a result of this known risk, the manufacturer has taken a number of actions, including improving training and publishing new guidance for pilots on techniques for wingtip strike avoidance. Before this serious incident, the manufacturer applied to Transport Canada for approval to make crosswind training a [TASE] for the Global fleet. This would ensure that all training providers have a standardized approach to crosswind techniques and training, for both initial and recurrent training programs.”