Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Summary:
On approach to Runway 25 at London Luton Airport in gusty conditions, the right wing of LX-NST made contact with the runway causing damage to the wingtip, flap fairing, aileron and slat. The runway contact occurred during a baulked landing in which the pitch and roll combination was sufficient for the right wing to touch the runway for approximately 18 m.
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. 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 Training Area of Special Emphasis (TASE) for the Global Fleet. This would ensure that all training providers have a standardised approach to crosswind techniques and training, for both initial and recurrent training programs. At the time of publication, the manufacturer was in the midst of on-going discussions with Transport Canada regarding the details of the proposed TASE.