Casualties unknown

1986-09-25: Fairchild SA-266TC (N327BA) — Britt Airways — Galesburg, IL

Galesburg, IL, US

On September 25, 1986, a Fairchild SA-266TC (registration N327BA) operated by Britt Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Galesburg, IL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff rotation, all landing gear on an SA-226 series aircraft retracted prematurely. The captain aborted the takeoff, and the aircraft slid to a stop on the runway. Subsequent tests revealed no mechanical malfunctions in the landing gear system.

Event Description

During the takeoff roll, as the aircraft rotated, all landing gear retracted prematurely. The captain responded by aborting the takeoff. The aircraft subsequently slid to a stop on the runway. The abort occurred at approximately 113 knots, while the calculated V1 speed for that takeoff was 108 knots.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft involved was an SA-226 series model. According to the investigation, these aircraft are susceptible to inadvertent gear retractions because the gear selector lever is positioned near the pilot's right knee. This location makes it possible for the lever to be accidentally moved out of the 'down' detent.

Post-Accident Testing

After the incident, engineers conducted gear retraction tests on the aircraft. These tests indicated no mechanical malfunctions within the landing gear system.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34735. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.