A Cargojet Boeing 767-300 operating on behalf of Amazon Prime Air overran the runway at Vancouver International Airport early Monday morning after reporting mechanical issues, officials said.
What Happened?
Whilst facts are still coming to light, the aircraft, registered as C-GAZI, was performing flight W8-2387 from Hamilton, Ontario, to Vancouver. During its approach, the crew declared a “PAN PAN” emergency, citing problems with the plane’s flaps and announcing the need for a higher-than-normal landing speed. Emergency services were placed on standby.
The plane landed on Vancouver’s runway 08L at 1:28 a.m. local time (9:28 UTC) at approximately 175 knots ground speed, exceeding normal landing velocity. After touching down, the aircraft overran the runway by about 572 meters (1,880 feet), and its nose gear collapsed upon coming to a stop. The crew issued a “Mayday” distress call after the incident.
No injuries were reported among the crew, but both of the airport’s parallel runways were affected. Runway 08R, which was closed for maintenance, was reopened to handle air traffic after runway 08L was shut down due to the incident.
An investigation into the runway excursion and mechanical issues is ongoing. Vancouver International Airport resumed operations later in the day.
We will bring you the latest in this investigation, as we are presented with further information.