Azerbaijan Airlines A320 Overruns Runway at St. Petersburg Following Landing Gear Issues

An Azerbaijan Airlines Airbus A320 operating flight AHY020 from St. Petersburg to Baku overran the runway at Pulkovo Airport early on October 20 after a prolonged landing gear emergency, coming to rest on the grass beyond runway 28R. All 155 passengers and crew were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported.

The aircraft departed Pulkovo Airport late Sunday night but stopped its climb at FL60 after the crew reported a malfunction in the landing gear system. In response, the flight crew initiate gear related procedures, later operating two low passes over the airport to allow ground observers to visually assess the gear status. With the issue unresolved, the aircraft entered a holding pattern for nearly an hour to burn off fuel before attempting multiple approaches.

At approximately 0040Z, the crew declared a Mayday and committed to landing. The aircraft touched down safely but was unable to stop within the runway limits, veering slightly off the paved surface and coming to rest on adjacent grass. Emergency services were on standby and responded immediately, assisting with passenger evacuation and securing the aircraft.

According to Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), the incident was handled in full compliance with aviation safety protocols. “The crew followed all established procedures to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft,” the airline stated. “We thank our passengers for their calm cooperation and Pulkovo Airport’s emergency teams for their professional response.”

Flight tracking data confirms the aircraft circled over St. Petersburg for nearly three hours before landing. Photos from the scene show emergency vehicles positioned near the aircraft, which sustained no visible structural damage.

Airport operations were briefly suspended following the incident but resumed later that morning. AZAL dispatched a replacement aircraft to transport passengers onward to Baku.