No fatalities

Minor wingtip damage during go-around from ILS approach (N6810)

Memphis, TN, US

On December 26, 1982, a Boeing 727-223 (registration N6810) operated by American Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Memphis, TN. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 11 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered N6810
Aircraft registered N6810. Photo: Pete Macklin / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Aircraft sustained minor leading edge and flap damage after the left wingtip was dragged during a missed approach procedure.

What happened

The flight crew initiated a go-around while executing an instrument landing system (ILS) approach. During this maneuver, the left wingtip of the aircraft made contact with the ground surface. This contact resulted in minor structural damage to several components on the left wing, specifically affecting the leading edge slats, the trailing edge flaps, and the outboard flap track housing.

Following the incident, the crew completed an uneventful landing at the airport. The aircraft was subsequently ferried to a company maintenance facility for repairs. Upon arrival at the facility, the flight director unit was removed for further inspection or replacement.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Dec 1982 Boeing 727-223 accident near Memphis, TN?

Aircraft sustained minor leading edge and flap damage after the left wingtip was dragged during a missed approach procedure.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Dec 1982 Boeing 727-223 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Dec 1982 involved a Boeing 727-223, registration N6810, operated by American Airlines, at Memphis, TN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04672. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.