An Eyewitness Account of a Near-Miss Landing: A Passenger’s Perspective

As an aviation enthusiast, I have experienced many bumpy flights over the years. However, one particular flight in September 2016 stands out as the closest I have come to being in an airplane crash. This incident not only highlights the incredible skills of the pilots but also brings to light the importance of airline safety measures and emergency procedures.

The flight in question was an Airbus A321 en route to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) in Cambodia. My wife and I were seated in the exit row on the starboard side of the aircraft. The approach was far from smooth, and just before touchdown, the aircraft pitched forward, causing a nauseating negative-g sensation reminiscent of a roller coaster's peak.

The Unusual Landing

What followed was a series of events that would make any passenger's blood run cold. The aircraft flared just before landing, and engine thrust reduced to idle. Normally, the landing gear should touch the runway shortly after this. But this time, the plane floated in ground-effect for a few seconds before touching down hard, bouncing slightly, and finally settling on the gear. From my window seat, I could see that the aircraft had landed long, and the brakes and full reverse thrust were engaged.

Emergency Protocols in Action

The taxiways at PNH do not extend the full length of the runway, so the aircraft typically slows down to a point where turning off the runway onto the taxiway is possible. However, in this case, the aircraft passed the taxiway exit while still decelerating and did not taxi further after stopping. An immediate 180-degree turn was made to the left. Through the window, I saw nothing but dry scrub in the field beyond the runway.

We had come that close to over-running the end of the runway.

A Family Passenger’s Perspective

My 188 cm height and position in the exit row meant that I had to pay particular attention to the safety briefing and understand how to open the exit. I had never before in my life considered that I might need to open the exit myself. Fortunately, we avoided the worst-case scenario, but the experience was certainly nerve-wracking.

While I am glad not to have experienced the horror of AF 358 in Toronto, which tragically resulted in the loss of lives, I do wonder if the pilots went through a rigorous pre-flight inspection after the incident. Given the near-miss scenario, it is essential for both passengers and crew to remain vigilant and prepared for the unexpected.

Preventive Measures and Safety Protocols

From this experience, several lessons emerge. Firstly, the training and skill of pilots are critically important. They must be able to handle unexpected situations with precision. Secondly, passengers also play an essential role in ensuring safety. Understanding the emergency procedures and being prepared for potential scenarios can make a significant difference.

In conclusion, the incident at Phnom Penh International Airport serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks involved in commercial aviation. While the safety record of airlines is generally good, incidents like these highlight the importance of continuous improvement and maintaining high standards. Let us all be grateful for the dedication of the aviation industry to prevent disasters.