a Norwegian Boeing 737-800, arriving from Oslo, overshot the runway upon landing at Molde Airport in Norway. The aircraft, which had been carrying passengers from Oslo, came to a stop just 15 meters from the edge of the sea, narrowly avoiding a potentially disastrous situation. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all passengers were safely evacuated from the aircraft, which remained on the runway without any immediate danger of sliding into the water.
The incident occurred at Molde Airport, which is known for its challenging conditions due to its location amidst mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather patterns. At the time of the landing, the airport was experiencing heavy rainfall and low visibility, which may have contributed to the difficulties encountered by the flight crew during the landing procedure. While the 737-800 is equipped with advanced technology to handle such conditions, the combination of weather and runway factors likely played a significant role in the plane’s inability to stop within the designated runway area.
The Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority and local law enforcement launched an investigation shortly after the event to determine the cause of the overshoot. Initial assessments suggest that runway conditions, including potential water on the runway due to rainfall, could have contributed to the aircraft’s inability to decelerate in time. The friction between the tires and the runway surface would have been compromised, especially under heavy rain, making it more challenging for the plane to come to a complete stop within the required distance.
The aircraft’s crew followed all emergency protocols, and the airport’s emergency services responded quickly to secure the scene and assist with the safe evacuation of passengers. Fortunately, the incident ended without injury, though it undoubtedly raised concerns over the safety of operations at Molde Airport, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges of landing at airports located in regions with challenging topographies and often volatile weather. Airports such as Molde, with their shorter runways and difficult surrounding terrain, require careful attention to weather forecasts, runway maintenance, and pilot readiness to ensure the safety of air traffic. Both Norwegian authorities and the airline are working together to fully assess the circumstances surrounding the overshoot and identify any potential improvements to safety protocols, ensuring similar incidents can be avoided in the future.
