Marathon Embraer E195 operating for Air Serbia severely damaged and is forced to make emergency return
Source: Boarding Pass
On February 18th, 2024, an Air Serbia Embraer E195 carrying 106 passengers safely returned to Belgrade airport after colliding with runway equipment and sustaining significant damage shortly after taking off from the Serbian capital. Media and airline blogs reported the incident, noting that despite the alarming event at Nikola Tesla Belgrade Airport, there were no injuries among the passengers.
Source: Boarding Pass
Details of the Incident
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The Embraer E195, with registration number OY-GDC, reportedly hit an approach mast as it exceeded the runway limits during takeoff.
The impact caused substantial damage to the left wing root and the leading edge of the horizontal stabilizer. Miraculously, the jet continued with its takeoff and flew for approximately 40 minutes before deciding to return to Belgrade.
Air Serbia flight JU324 from Belgard to Düsseldorf
Investigation and Uncertainties
As of now, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. However, initial reports suggest that the E195 accessed runway 30L through the wrong intersection, finding itself in the middle of the runway.
Source: Jovan Pantelić
This misalignment led to a runway excursion, but the skilled pilots managed to lift the aircraft off the ground. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers or the crew.
Runway Expansion at Nikola Tesla Belgrade Airport
It's worth noting that Nikola Tesla Belgrade Airport is currently undergoing runway expansion, involving the construction of a new runway situated between the old runway and the taxiway.
Source: Jovan Pantelić
This expansion project may have contributed to the unusual circumstances surrounding the incident. An investigation is likely underway to determine the exact causes and contributing factors.
Source: Jovan Pantelić
Aircraft History
The Embraer E195 involved in the incident, OY-GDC, was initially delivered to Flybe in August 2008; it has since flown with several other airlines, including Great Dane Airlines and Bamboo Airways.
Update
The pilot of Marathon Airlines' Embraer E195, operating for Air Serbia, was warned about taking off before being authorized. The audio records the dialogue between the pilot and the air traffic control.
Source: Peđa Vučetić / Jovan Pantelić
