Airlink Embraer involved in runway excursion at Pemba Airport

A South African Airlink Embraer ERJ-135LR, with registration ZS-SJX, sustained damage after veering off the runway during its landing at Pemba Airport (POL) in Mozambique.

The incident took place on January 18, in the afternoon, as the Airlink Embraer ERJ-135LR operated as flight 4Z204 from Johannesburg-O. R Tambo International Airport (JNB) to Pemba Airport. The aircraft experienced a runway excursion upon landing in heavy rain. Fortunately, all 35 occupants on board managed to safely disembark the aircraft, including passengers and crew members.

Social media footage has emerged, revealing the aircraft positioned on soft ground beyond the runway, with ground vehicles present.

As of now, the extent of damage to the 22.7-year-old regional commuter jet is unknown. The aircraft, registered as ZS-SJX, is part of the fleet owned by the South African carrier Airlink. Delivered to the airline in May 2001, the Embraer ERJ-135LR has been in active operation since then. Further updates on the damage assessment are awaited.