Marathon Airlines E195 Incident: A Critical Look at Takeoff Performance Assessment

In a recent aviation mishap, a Marathon Airlines Embraer E195, operating under Air Serbia, encountered a significant operational oversight during its takeoff from Belgrade, Serbia. The preliminary findings from the Center for Investigation of Accidents in Transport of the Republic of Serbia (CINS) shed light on a series of misjudgments and procedural lapses that led to the aircraft impacting an object upon takeoff. This incident raises pertinent questions about flight safety protocols and the rigorous adherence to takeoff parameters.

Miscommunication and Misjudgment on the Runway

The incident unfolded on February 18, 2024, when the E195, embarking on Air Serbia flight JU324 from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) to Dusseldorf International Airport (DUS), mistakenly prepared for takeoff from an incorrect intersection, significantly shortening the available runway. Despite Air Traffic Control (ATC)'s advisory against taking off from the truncated runway length at intersection D5, the flight crew proceeded with their calculations and decided the takeoff was feasible.

The Crucial Moments Leading to the Incident

As the aircraft accelerated, the crew realized too late that they were running out of runway, opting to continue with the takeoff in a high-stakes decision that culminated in the aircraft hitting an object. This critical moment was characterized by an attempt to maximize the remaining runway and an adjacent asphalt section, a decision that starkly underscores the risks of deviating from standard operational procedures.

Emergency Response and Aftermath

Following the takeoff, the aircraft experienced immediate system alerts, prompting a mayday call and a swift decision to return to BEG. The skillful response by the flight crew and the ground emergency services ensured a safe landing and evacuation, preventing potential injuries to passengers and crew. The aircraft, however, suffered considerable damage, with fuel leakage from the left wing posing an additional risk that was promptly managed on the ground.

Investigative Findings and Safety Implications

The CINS's preliminary report points to an "inadequate assessment of takeoff parameters" by the flight crew as a probable cause of the incident. This lapse in judgment highlights the critical importance of accurate pre-flight planning and adherence to established takeoff parameters. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the thin margin for error in aviation operations and the non-negotiable necessity of strict compliance with safety protocols.

Conclusion: A Call for Rigorous Safety Standards

The Marathon Airlines E195 incident at Belgrade serves as a cautionary tale for the aviation industry, emphasizing the need for meticulous adherence to flight operation protocols. As investigations continue, the aviation community must reflect on this incident to reinforce safety standards and prevent the recurrence of similar events. The proactive termination of the wet lease contract by Air Serbia underscores the airline's commitment to safety and reliability, setting a precedent for accountability and operational integrity in the face of unforeseen challenges.