On October 1, 1988, a Beech B23 (registration N9110T) operated by Willis Skeen Associates was involved in an aviation accident near Roanoke, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to execute a go-around after the first bounce, which resulted in the collapse of the landing gear and subsequent off-runway excursion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The aircraft bounced twice during landing at approach speeds of 75 to 80 knots, leading to the collapse of both the left main gear and nose gear before sliding off the runway.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced two bounces during the landing phase. The approach speed was maintained between 75 and 80 knots. During the second bounce, the left main gear collapsed. Subsequently, on the final touchdown, the nose gear also failed. Following these structural failures, the aircraft slid off the left side of the runway.
The investigation
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the aircraft prior to the incident. It was noted that this flight marked the pilot's first operation in six weeks. The pilot acknowledged that a go-around maneuver should have been initiated after the initial bounce occurred.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to execute a go-around after the first bounce, which resulted in the collapse of the landing gear and subsequent off-runway excursion.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 Oct 1988 Beech B23 accident near Roanoke, VA?
The aircraft bounced twice during landing at approach speeds of 75 to 80 knots, leading to the collapse of both the left main gear and nose gear before sliding off the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Oct 1988 involved a Beech B23, registration N9110T, operated by Willis Skeen Associates, at Roanoke, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to execute a go-around after the first bounce, which resulted in the collapse of the landing gear and subsequent off-runway excursion.
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