On December 15, 1985, a Boeing 747-136 (registration GAWNE) was involved in an aviation accident near Boston, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fatigue failure of five forward attachment bolts and overload failure of the remaining three bolts. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Approximately 16 feet of the left inboard trailing edge flap separated during final approach. Investigation found fatigue in five of eight forward attachment bolts and overload failures in the remaining three.
Incident
During final approach to landing, approximately 16 feet of the left inboard trailing edge flap separated from the aircraft. The approach and landing were completed without further incident.
Investigation
The subsequent investigation examined the forward attachment fittings of the No. 3 flap track. Of the eight bolts securing the forward attach fitting to the wing, five showed signs of fatigue failure. The remaining three bolts exhibited overload type failures.
Findings
At the time of the accident, Boeing had not required any inspection requirements for the forward attachment bolts. The investigation concluded that the bolt failures were due to fatigue in five bolts and overload in three.
Probable cause
Fatigue failure of five forward attachment bolts and overload failure of the remaining three bolts.
What happened in the 15 Dec 1985 Boeing 747-136 accident near Boston, MA?
Approximately 16 feet of the left inboard trailing edge flap separated during final approach. Investigation found fatigue in five of eight forward attachment bolts and overload failures in the remaining three.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Dec 1985 involved a Boeing 747-136, registration GAWNE, at Boston, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fatigue failure of five forward attachment bolts and overload failure of the remaining three bolts.
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