What happened
The aircraft was operating under normal flight conditions when a significant structural failure occurred during the initial phase of ascent. Specifically, the centerbody attached to the number one engine detached from the airframe while the aircraft was climbing. Despite this major mechanical separation, the pilot maintained control and successfully landed the remaining aircraft without any further complications or incidents.
The detached centerbody component fell away from the main fuselage and impacted private property below. Fortunately, the impact did not result in any damage to the property or surrounding structures. No injuries were reported among occupants on the ground or aboard the aircraft during this event.
The investigation
Post-accident examination focused on the mechanical integrity of the engine attachment points and the history of maintenance compliance. Investigators reviewed the manufacturer's directives regarding the specific component that failed. Records indicated that a service bulletin had been issued by the manufacturer requiring operators to inspect the centerbody and replace the associated attach bolts within 1000 hours of the bulletin's issue date.
Analysis revealed that the operator had not complied with this mandatory maintenance directive. The failure to perform the required inspection and bolt replacement left the attachment points vulnerable, leading directly to the in-flight separation during the high-stress initial climb phase.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this incident was the non-compliance with manufacturer safety directives. Specifically:
- The operator failed to adhere to the service bulletin requiring inspection of the centerbody.
- The required replacement of centerbody attach bolts within the specified 1000-hour window was not completed.
- This lack of maintenance allowed for potential fatigue or loosening of the attachment hardware, resulting in structural failure during climb.
The event highlights the critical importance of adhering to manufacturer service bulletins to ensure structural integrity and flight safety.