Expert Opinion
AINsight: FMS Error Results in Near-CFIT Accident
Continuation of an unstabilized approach nearly led to disaster
TSB data on de Havilland accident
Map showing the holding pattern at IKDOB of the de Havilland DHC-8-106 approaching Val-d’Or Airport. © Google Earth with TSB annotations. Information on obstacle clearance areas provided by NAVCANADA

In October 2023, the captain of a de Havilland DHC-8-106 approaching the Val-d’Or Airport (CYVO) in Quebec, Canada, requested a go-around from air traffic control due to “navigation problems.” Seconds later, the terrain awareness warning system (TAWS) began generating alerts, and the flight management system (FMS) automatically displayed information about an imminent collision with terrain. The captain then ordered a go-around.

The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada’s safety investigation report cited a single programming error in the FMS that ultimately led to a series of additional errors that contributed to the flight crew’s confusion, increased workload, and loss of situational awareness during the approach.

Stuart “Kipp” Lau
Contributor - Safety
About the author

Pilot, safety expert, consultant, and aviation journalist Stuart “Kipp” Lau writes about flight safety and airmanship for AIN.

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