What happened
The incident occurred when an aircraft, having received clearance from the control tower to taxi onto the active runway from an adjacent taxiway, experienced a catastrophic failure of its right main landing gear. As the aircraft moved along the taxiway, the right main gear collapsed and fell into a hole in the pavement surface.
At the time of the event, construction work was actively being performed in the immediate area. The construction zone lacked any warning lights or barriers to alert pilots to the hazard. The pilot later reported that tower personnel had instructed the construction crew multiple times to erect markers for the work zone, but the crew failed to comply with these directives.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the condition of the taxiway and the coordination between air traffic control and ground operations. It was determined that the lack of lighting and physical barriers contributed directly to the gear collapse. The pilot's statement confirmed that despite repeated warnings from the tower, the construction crew did not secure the area.
Findings
The primary factors leading to this accident were:
- The taxiway was unlighted and lacked necessary warning markers.
- Construction work was ongoing without adequate safety precautions.
- Failure of the construction crew to follow tower instructions regarding hazard mitigation.
Safety message
This event highlights the critical importance of clear communication and strict adherence to safety protocols between air traffic control and ground maintenance crews. All construction zones on airport property must be clearly marked with appropriate lighting and barriers to prevent accidents involving aircraft.