Casualties unknown

Aircrew Initiates Missed Approach, Subsequently Lands with Partial Gear and Exits Runway in Thunderstorm (N964VJ)

Detroit, MI, US

On June 13, 1984, a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-9-31 (registration N964VJ) was involved in an aviation accident near Detroit, MI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During an ILS approach in thunderstorms, an aircrew encountered heavy rain, hail, and turbulence, initiated a missed approach, but elected to land. The aircraft touched down 2,500 ft down the runway with partially extended gear, slid 3,800 ft, and went off the runway.

Arrival and Weather Conditions

During arrival, the aircrew visually and by use of weather radar noted thunderstorms west and southwest of the airport. The crew elected to continue and make an ILS approach. A special weather observation at 1636 had thunderstorm information but was not noted. At 1650, the visibility dropped to 1/4 mile with heavy rain and hail. As the aircraft approached Runway 21R, a VIP level 4 thunderstorm moved from west to east over the northern part of the airport.

Air Traffic Control Communications

The controller provided wind information from the Low Level Wind Shear Alert System (LLWAS), but used improper phraseology and failed to provide RVR information when the visibility went below 1 mile. The crew had difficulty understanding the LLWAS information due to the amount and rapidity with which it was provided.

Approach and Missed Attempt

At approximately 350 feet AGL, the aircraft encountered low clouds, heavy rain, hail, and turbulence. The aircrew initiated a missed approach. The speed increased to 143 knots, then decreased to approximately 119 knots. The captain believed the aircraft would not climb and elected to land.

Landing and Runway Excursion

The aircraft touched down about 2,500 feet down the runway with the gear partially extended, then slid 3,800 feet and went off the runway. The wind was gusting to 32 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39893. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.