What happened
The aircraft was preparing for takeoff on a runway equipped with an arresting gear system. The arresting gear cable was installed at a distance of 1,900 feet from the runway threshold. During the initial phase of the takeoff roll, the pilot became aware that the aircraft was approaching the location of the arresting gear cable. In an effort to avoid rolling over or striking the cable, which could have caused severe damage or loss of control, the pilot made the decision to abort the standard takeoff path and utilize the runway overrun area instead.
As the aircraft taxied from the taxiway into this designated overrun zone, the right main landing gear encountered an open utility hole located within the pavement. The gear collapsed upon impact with the edge or bottom of the hole, resulting in significant structural damage to the aircraft's undercarriage and surrounding fuselage areas.
The investigation
Examination of the accident site revealed that the arresting gear cable was intact but posed a potential hazard if the aircraft had continued its original trajectory. The primary point of failure was identified as the open utility hole in the overrun area. The pavement around the hole showed signs of stress and impact consistent with the weight of the aircraft's landing gear collapsing into the void.
Findings
The investigation determined that the use of the runway overrun for takeoff initiation was a critical factor. While the pilot's intent was to avoid the arresting gear, the overrun area contained an unmarked or inadequately protected utility hole. The structural integrity of the pavement in that specific location was insufficient to support the aircraft's weight during the maneuver.
The right main landing gear collapsed into an open utility hole. This mechanical failure led to the final damage state of the aircraft. The presence of the arresting gear necessitated a deviation from standard procedures, but the condition of the overrun area contributed directly to the accident.
Safety message
Runway overrun areas and taxiways must be regularly inspected for pavement integrity and utility access covers. Any open holes or depressions in these zones pose a severe risk to aircraft landing gear during emergency maneuvers or normal operations.