On January 12, 1989, a DE Havilland DHC-7-102 (registration N926RM) operated by Rocky Mountain Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Gunnison, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fatigue failure of the lock strut in the landing gear assembly and non-compliance with the corresponding service bulletin. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing at Gunnison, Colorado, the right landing gear of Rocky Mountain Airways Flight 2276 partially collapsed. The captain retained control and taxied off the runway. Investigation found a fatigue failure of the lock strut and non-compliance with a service bulletin.
Incident Overview
Rocky Mountain Airways Flight 2276, a scheduled flight from Denver, Colorado to Gunnison, Colorado, experienced a right landing gear partial collapse during touchdown at Gunnison. The captain maintained directional control throughout the landing roll. After exiting the runway onto the aircraft parking apron, the engines were shut down and passengers deplaned.
Investigation Findings
Subsequent investigation revealed that the lock strut in the landing gear assembly had failed due to fatigue. A service bulletin concerning the inspection and replacement of this part had not been complied with.
Probable cause
Fatigue failure of the lock strut in the landing gear assembly and non-compliance with the corresponding service bulletin.
What happened in the 12 Jan 1989 DE Havilland DHC-7-102 accident near Gunnison, CO?
During landing at Gunnison, Colorado, the right landing gear of Rocky Mountain Airways Flight 2276 partially collapsed. The captain retained control and taxied off the runway. Investigation found a fatigue failure of the lock strut and non-compliance with a service bulletin.
Were there any fatalities in the 12 Jan 1989 DE Havilland DHC-7-102 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Jan 1989 involved a DE Havilland DHC-7-102, registration N926RM, operated by Rocky Mountain Airways, at Gunnison, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fatigue failure of the lock strut in the landing gear assembly and non-compliance with the corresponding service bulletin.
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