AAIB investigation to Bombardier Challenger CL-600-2B16 (601-3A), 2-PAPA
Unstable approach leading to a terrain warning, on approach to Oxford Airport 29 March 2022.
Summary:
The flight crew were flying a non-precision approach to Oxford Airport. As the aircraft passed the Final Approach Fix, in IMC, a high rate of descent was established leading to a GPWS terrain warning. As the aircraft emerged from cloud the commander reduced the rate of descent and elected to continue the approach. The aircraft landed normally.
There was insufficient data to determine with certainty why the high rate of descent occurred but it was likely to be due to the way the Flight Management System (FMS) was used to fly the approach. The operator’s procedures required the crew to initiate a maximum gradient climb following a GPWS warning in IMC and a go-around following an unstable approach or high rate of descent on approach, but neither occurred. Fatigue and miscommunication may have been contributory factors.
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