Date of Incident: September 10, 2024
Aircraft Involved: China Airlines Boeing 737-800 (Registration: B-18661)
Flight Route: Taipei (TPE) to Guam (GUM)
Location: Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport, Guam
Summary of the Event:
A China Airlines passenger jet experienced a significant incident upon landing at Guam’s international airport. The aircraft, arriving from Taipei, mistakenly landed on the wrong runway.
Instead of touching down on the assigned runway, Runway 12L, the plane landed on the parallel Runway 12R.
After landing on the incorrect runway, the aircraft then attempted to exit. During this maneuver, it crossed the active Runway 12L and collided with a yellow concrete barrier (a runway edge light array). This impact caused substantial damage to both of the plane’s engines, resulting in a fire.
Key Details:
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Cause: The official cause is under investigation. The initial report indicates a failure to adhere to the assigned landing instructions.
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Damage: Both engines were severely damaged and caught fire. The extent of damage to the landing gear and fuselage is likely.
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Aircraft Status: The Civil Aeronautics Administration of Taiwan confirmed the involved aircraft was not a new plane but an existing one in the fleet.
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Investigation: China Airlines has stated it will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the incident. Aviation authorities from relevant jurisdictions are also expected to investigate.
There were no initial reports of serious injuries among passengers or crew, though this is often confirmed later after full evacuation. The incident caused disruptions to airport operations.
